A group of dedicated cyclists concluded their 1,139 km ride for cancer awareness on October 19, 2023, in Hua Hin.
Starting in Mae Sai in northern Thailand, the “Cycling Against Cancer” project journeyed south over the span of seven days, making its final stop at the Wang Klai Kangwon on Phetkasem Road.
Polkrit Puangwalaisin, the District Chief Officer of Hua Hin centre, accompanied by representatives from the Hua Hin-Cha Am Tourism Business Association, the Rotary Club of Hua Hin, and the local branch of the Red Cross in Hua Hin, extended a warm welcome to the cyclists. The event honored the memory of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
Led by Police Captain Thanasan Kaemthai, principal of Ban Kok Chang Phatthana School in Hua Hin, the procession consisted of 32 cyclists who later continued on to the Municipal Office of Nong Plub Subdistrict.
Police Captain Thanasan shared the motivation behind the event, aiming to uplift and inspire cancer patients. By illustrating the resilience of those like himself, a stage 4 cancer survivor, and others who face challenges every day, the group hopes to demonstrate that obstacles can be overcome. “We want to show them that even in the face of such hardships, one can still find happiness and pursue their passions,” stated Pol. Cap Thanasan.
He also noted that of the 26 cyclists who committed to the entirety of the journey, one was a breast cancer patient eager to share in the experience.
Along the route, the group was joined by fellow cycling enthusiasts who rode alongside them between various destinations. From Mae Sai to Chiang Rai and further on to Phayao province, local cyclists teamed up with the group, offering support in various forms such as providing food, accommodations, and water.
“There were no fees or costs. Many selflessly offered aid, and I personally covered expenses for the service vehicle team. Everyone involved genuinely came from a place of deep compassion,” said Pol. Cap Thanasan.
Additionally, the “Cycling Against Cancer” initiative extends an invitation for charitable contributions to benefit the students of Ban Kok Chang Phatthana School, Grade 9, in Nong Plub Sub-district, Hua Hin. Interested parties can make a bank transfer to the account “Kong Thun Pha Pa for Education of Kok Chang Phatthana School” with Krung Thai Bank, account number 7220675232. The organizers kindly discourage cash donations, assuring a school committee will oversee the funds’ proper use.
