More than 600 runners and wheelchair competitors ignored forecasts of flooding in Phnom Penh to take part in the Sydney 2000 Fun Run on Sunday.
This year’s event coincided with the opening of the Olympic Games in Sydney.
‘’We were worried about the flood, but we are pleased’’ with the turnout, said Libby McCutchan, one of the organizers. Sponsors included the Australian Embassy, the Australian Business Association of Cambodia, and the Australian Connection.
The field of 609 contestants was down slightly from last year, when the inaugural race drew 680. McCutchan said this year’s field included more expatriates and children, and fewer women.
So Vantha, who ran in the 10-km race, said there may be fewer runners because there is no prize money, only a winner’s cup.
The race began shortly before 8 am in front of the Hong Kong Center on Sothearos Boulevard, looping north past the Royal Palace to Wat Unalom, east to the river, south past the Cambodiana Hotel and west to the Independence Monument.
The winners follow:
• 10 km men, winner Hok Bunthoun, 2nd, Ian McConville, 3rd, Piseth Chheng; 10 km women, winner Elizabeth McMahon, 2nd, Nathalie Knutti, 3rd, Bunga Kurnia Mastha.
• 5 km men, Hourm Sam Nang, 2nd Cheng Pisey, 3rd Pov Sitha; 5 km women, Mok Nary, 2nd Mok Aranya, 3rd Hang Sry.
• 10 km wheelchair, Nov Sam Nang, 2nd, Pov Sophal; 5 km wheelchair (unassisted), Tith Sary, 2nd Seng Kong, 3rd En Phally.
• 5 km wheelchair (assisted), Sok Veoun; 5 km amputee, San Mao, 2nd On Sokeng, 3rd Kim Vanna.
