The Chapman’s Challenge 2026: Racing Through Paradise at Pangkor Laut An endurance race through rainforest and sea, The Chapman’s Challenge 2026 combines adventure, luxury and island escapism at Pangkor Laut Resort.
There are endurance races that test physical limits, and then there are races that become part of a destination’s mythology. The Chapman’s Challenge 2026 at Pangkor Laut Resort belongs firmly in the latter category.
Set against the backdrop of emerald waters and a two-million-year-old rainforest, the annual event returned for its eighth edition from 22 to 24 May 2026, transforming the ultra-luxurious private island resort into a playground for athletes, adventurers and wellness seekers alike.

Inspired by the wartime escape of British officer Colonel Freddy Spencer Chapman — who survived for years in the Malayan jungle before swimming across Emerald Bay to safety in 1945 — the race is as much about storytelling as it is about stamina.
Participants tackle a demanding multi-discipline course beginning with a 3.8km road run around the island, followed by a rugged 2.4km rainforest trek, before culminating in a 1km open-water swim through the crystalline waters of Emerald Bay and finishing triumphantly at Chapman’s Bar. But unlike traditional endurance events defined by urban streets and crowded stadiums, The Chapman’s Challenge feels deeply immersive. Every stage unfolds within Pangkor Laut’s extraordinary natural landscape — from winding coastal roads and dense jungle trails to hidden coves framed by limestone cliffs.
This year’s edition also marked a significant evolution for the event. For the first time, organisers introduced new race formats including relay categories, a junior edition for participants aged 11 to 17, and enthusiast packages for supporters wanting to be part of the island weekend without competing.
The expanded format gave the weekend a more communal, festival-like atmosphere. Families travelled together, groups of friends formed relay teams, and spectators gathered along the beachfront to cheer competitors emerging from the sea after the final swim.
Yet despite the relaxed island setting, the race itself remained uncompromising.
The rainforest section proved especially punishing, with steep ascents, slippery descents and relentless tropical humidity pushing even seasoned athletes to their limits. Open-water swimmers then faced choppy conditions in Emerald Bay, where calm turquoise waters can quickly become deceptively demanding.
Still, much of the appeal lies precisely in that contrast — the ability to suffer gloriously in one moment and recover luxuriously in the next.

And few resorts in Southeast Asia understand post-race recovery quite like Pangkor Laut. The privately owned island, operated by YTL Hotels, remains one of Malaysia’s most iconic luxury retreats. Accessible only by resort boat transfer, Pangkor Laut feels intentionally detached from the pace of modern life. Villas perch over the sea, jungle pathways wind quietly beneath towering rainforest canopies, and every corner seems engineered for calm.
For race participants, the experience extended well beyond the finish line.

After the day’s exertions, competitors gathered barefoot at Chapman’s Bar for sunset cocktails overlooking Emerald Bay, followed by a beachfront barbecue dinner and prize-giving ceremony under the stars.
The atmosphere balanced celebration with camaraderie. Conversations drifted easily between race strategy, recovery rituals and shared appreciation for the island’s natural beauty. Some guests spent the following morning at the award-winning Spa Village, while others opted for paddleboarding, jungle walks or simply retreating to their villas for uninterrupted rest.
That seamless blend of endurance sport and tropical escapism is ultimately what sets The Chapman’s
Challenge apart.
Unlike large-scale commercial races, this event feels deliberately intimate and deeply connected to place. The island itself becomes both competitor and host — offering resistance through its terrain while rewarding participants with moments of extraordinary serenity.
Even the race’s mythology contributes to the experience. Colonel Chapman’s wartime story continues to echo through the jungle trails and waters competitors cross today, lending the event a sense of emotional depth uncommon in modern endurance racing.
As wellness travel increasingly shifts toward transformative experiences rather than passive luxury, The Chapman’s Challenge occupies a unique space. It appeals not only to athletes chasing personal bests, but also to travellers seeking adventure with meaning, community and immersion.
At Pangkor Laut, the reward is not simply crossing the finish line.
It is waking up the next morning to the sound of waves beneath your villa, sore muscles softened by sea air, and the quiet satisfaction of having tested yourself in one of the most beautiful race settings in Asia.
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The energy carried over into the next morning as the Sunrise Run took centre stage, featuring the Half and Full marathon races. Spotlight on the race results, returning champion and Phuket native Apichai Phujit retained his Full Marathon title with a finish time of 2:51:48 and the women’s Mayumi Watanabe from Japan delivered a strong performance crossing the finish line in 3:27:05.
Other notable podium wins include B. Mungai Kirogoi of Kenya who showed an incredible win for the men’s Half Marathon race at 1:18;30 and the women’s category – Chiaki Morikawa in 1:23:46.
We caught up with 33-year-old Hansen Sun, runner from Singapore who proudly clinched a podium spot in his age group for the Half Marathon. He shared his thoughts on what made Laguna Phuket such a special race experience:
1. RUNSG: Is this your first time running Laguna Phuket Marathon? Share with us your experience at the race.
Hansen: Yes, this was my first race in Thailand! It was a very well organised race - a cozy size, with plenty of festivities for runners to partake in - like the pasta party, and the various booths at the expo. Given that many runners also stay within the Laguna, I bumped into many friends whilst on my shakeout run on Saturday morning, which adds to the feeling that we're all staying in a "race village" together for this event.
2. RUNSG: You podium in the 21km race, did you PB? How is the race atmosphere in Phuket compared to the local races back in Singapore? Was there a big elite group that you had to compete with, for your position?
Hansen: Came in 3rd for the M30-39 category for the HM. While it wasn't a PB under tropical conditions, it reflected my current fitness levels and I am satisfied with my performance on the challenging course with the rolling hills. Given the start time of the race, and us running through the countryside, I was not expecting much crowds to support along the way, but it was very interesting to see how some residents were already up and about going on their day, and giving us some cheers as we whizzed past. The competition was manageable, and we were running mostly on our own (not within a pack) for most of the race - This could be a function of the challenging nature of the hills, causing different runners to manage and regulate their pace at different times. One thing I appreciate about Thai races is the awarding of AG trophies - which really encourage more participation and incentivizes something for people to fight for.
4. RUN SG: What is the most memorable part of the race, why was it memorable?
Hansen: The diverse sceneries, from the seaside to the the farmlands and residences make this quite an interesting route. Having something to see along the run always helps to keep the mind "distracted" from the tough part of pushing yourself at faster paces. This is also something that we will of course not get to witness in Singapore, or from any of the regional city races.
5. RUN SG: Did you enjoy Phuket? What did you enjoy most about the town other than the race?
Hansen: Having good Thai food to carbo load on is always a plus. Outside of the Laguna resort area, there are plenty of good food to savour, and I managed to try the very best restaurants on this trip. There are also fun things out in areas like the Old Town for you to experience the night market, and to relax in a good massage after exerting yourself in the race. There is plenty for you to choose from. Even if you wish to just remain within the resort area, the good facilities within the resorts also provide a great escape from our hustle and bustle of city life.
6. RUNSG: Would you come back to race Laguna Phuket Marathon again?
Hansen: Definitely. I always like a challenge - and now that I have experienced it once, I think it will be a good course to test my training progress again in the future.
A Familiar Favourite with New Discoveries
Phuket has long been a favourite getaway destination for me over the decades. While I’ve grown familiar with the bustling Patong Beach area, this trip allowed me to uncover a few hidden gems and savour authentic local Thai cuisine I hadn’t experienced before.
Dinner with a View: Tunk-ka Café
If you enjoy dining with a view, Tunk-ka Café is not to be missed. Tucked away on Rang Hill, this hidden gem offers some of the most stunning panoramic views over Phuket Town. Perched above the city amidst lush greenery, it’s an ideal spot for a breezy, relaxing meal—especially at sunset.
The menu features a delightful mix of classic Southern Thai dishes and local seafood favourites, all served in a charming open-air setting that feels refreshingly local despite its popularity. Prices are reasonable, the service is warm, and the atmosphere is tranquil. Must-tries include plamuek tod kratiem prikthai (garlic-fried squid), lotus root salad, and pandan-leaf chicken. It’s a dining experience that blends flavour, scenery, and culture—an absolute must when visiting Phuket Town.
A Glimpse into Thai Spirituality: Wat Chalong
With around 95% of Thais practicing Buddhism, temples are an integral part of the country’s cultural and spiritual fabric. No matter where you are in Thailand, you’re bound to encounter temples steeped in history and devotion.
Wat Chalong stands as one of Phuket’s most significant and revered temples. The beautifully kept
grounds feature intricate architecture, golden Buddha statues, and a majestic chedi that houses a sacred relic of the Buddha. Visitors can witness locals making offerings and lighting firecrackers as part of their merit-making rituals—offering a rich, immersive experience into Thai culture and spirituality. Entry is free, though modest attire is required. Whether you’re spiritually inclined or simply curious, Wat Chalong is well worth the visit for its peaceful ambiance and cultural depth.
As the sun set on yet another memorable edition of the Laguna Phuket Marathon, it became clear why runners from around the world keep returning to this island race. It’s not just the scenic routes or the unique sunset and sunrise starts — it’s the warmth of the local community, the festive spirit, and the shared joy of running in such a breathtaking destination.
For RUN Singapore, it was more than just a race; it was a reminder of why we lace up our shoes — to explore, to connect, and to celebrate the simple joy of running and of course immersing in its stunning cultural setting and savouring its delectable cuisine.
Until next time, Phuket. We’ll be back. 
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RUNSG: Tell us more about yourself and what you are currently involved in?
Alicia: I’m a personal trainer and wellness coach based in Singapore, and I’m also an ambassador for the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2025. Right now, I’m training for my first full marathon, which has definitely been a huge physical and mental challenge. Outside of my own training, I work mainly with women through strength training and lifestyle coaching—helping them build real confidence both in and out of the gym.
challenges people face—especially women. A lot of the women I coach, including myself, can sometimes hold back from using tools that might make them stand out or seem “extra” during training.
But the truth is, performance tools like Therapin help us train more efficiently and feel more in control, especially when it comes to something as fundamental as breathing. It’s not about pushing harder for the sake of it—it’s about giving yourself permission to train smart, not just tough. That shift in mindset is something I’m always trying to encourage in my coaching, and Therapin supports that without overcomplicating it. That’s why working with them genuinely feels like a partnership that reflects what I believe in.
As an athlete who understands the value of self-awareness, Alicia brings a refreshing, authentic voice to the Therapin community. Her insights offer a window into how intentional breathing can unlock not just stronger runs—but a stronger sense of self.



















From world-class running events and delicious local food to unparalleled wellness experiences, Thailand truly offers everything a runner could dream of. Whether you're here for a marathon, a cycling event, or just to experience the beauty of the country, there’s no shortage of exciting activities and experiences. Thailand isn’t justa destinationfor runners—it’s a place where you can push your limits, recover, and enjoy everything that makes this country so amazing.
The marathon, which took place on December 1st, 2024, is a must-run event for every marathoner. Picture yourself running past iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace and along Bangkok’s vibrant streets—it's an experience that makes you forget you're even running a marathon! The atmosphere is electric, with locals and international runners alike connecting through their shared passion for the sport. High-fives from spectators, encouragement from fellow runners, and the cheers of the crowd will keep you going as you race through the heart of the city.In 2024, Her Majesty Queen Suthida attended alongside the legendary Eliud Kipchoge, who participated as an ambassador, joining the 10km run and inspiring thousands of participants. The energy is infectious, with every stride feeling like a part of a larger global community. If you missed the excitement last year, be sure to look out for ATMB 2025—an event you don’t want to miss!























































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































