CIR Lifestyle
Phnom Penh is preparing to welcome thousands of runners for the 14th Phnom Penh International Half Marathon on June 14, 2026, with organisers unveiling a refreshed race route designed to showcase more of the capital while improving participant safety and race flow.
The annual event, which has become one of Cambodia’s leading community sporting occasions, is expected to draw between 5,000 and 6,000 runners this year, including a growing number of international participants.
New Route Highlights Phnom Penh’s Modern Skyline
The biggest change for 2026 is the redesigned 21-kilometre half marathon course.
Instead of crossing the busy Chroy Changvar Bridge as in previous years, runners will now begin at Wat Botum Park before heading along the riverside past Royal Palace and several central Phnom Penh landmarks.
The route will then extend through Koh Pich and Koh Norea before looping back to the finish area.
For lifestyle-focused runners, the updated course offers a more visual and enjoyable experience, combining historic riverside scenery with Phnom Penh’s fast-developing urban districts.
Growing Appeal For Fitness and Tourism
Organisers said more than 3,000 runners have already registered, with nearly 1,000 international participants confirmed so far.
The race continues to attract a mix of serious athletes, corporate teams, embassy groups, casual runners and families seeking an active weekend event in the capital.
Four race categories will be available:
- 21km Half Marathon
- 10km Run
- 5km Run
- 2.5km Fun Run
The event also supports charitable fundraising for Kantha Bopha Children’s Hospitals, adding a social impact element to the day.
Phnom Penh’s Lifestyle Moment
With more cafés, fitness clubs, wellness communities and social running groups emerging across the city, Phnom Penh’s half marathon increasingly reflects the capital’s changing lifestyle culture.
The addition of Koh Pich and Koh Norea to the route also highlights how Phnom Penh’s waterfront districts are becoming central to leisure, events and outdoor recreation.
For many participants, the event is now as much about community, health and city pride as it is about finishing times.
Call For Early Registration
Organisers are encouraging runners to register early to secure race packs and assist with planning for logistics, hydration, safety and medical support.
For residents and visitors alike, the June race is shaping up to be one of Phnom Penh’s standout lifestyle events of the year.
