PATTAYA, Thailand: September 20th, 2026: The beachfront at Dongtan Plaza on Dongtan Beach (Jomtien) came alive before dawn today as officials, runners and visitors gathered for LOMA RUN ON THE BEACH 2026, a charity walk-and-run that combined fitness, tourism and fundraising for underprivileged children.
The event opened at 5:30 a.m. with Pattaya Deputy Mayor Kritsana Boonsawat, Chonburi Provincial Administrative Organization member Sitthichai Atsong, Pattaya City Council member Wutthithorn Saengurai, Assistant Secretary to the President of the Pattaya City Council Ekprapho Eakasingh, HHN Foundation for Thai Children Director Ratchada Chomjinda, Deputy Director Siromet Akarapongpanich, city staff, Pattaya police, tourist police and other partners.
Organizers said more than 2,500 runners took part, with spectators and tourists bringing the total to more than 3,000 people. The event is expected to generate more than 15 million baht in local spending.
The race was split into two distances: a 5-kilometer Fun Run with about 1,150 participants and a 10-kilometer mini-marathon with about 1,350. Dongtan Plaza served as the start and finish, with the course running along the beach and through key tourist areas of Pattaya.
The 10-kilometer race started at 5:45 a.m. and the 5-kilometer race at 6:00 a.m. Traffic was restricted in the Dongtan Beach zone from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. On some stretches, runners shared the road with vehicles under police and official supervision.
Officials said the event was meant to encourage exercise and healthy living while boosting hotels, restaurants, shops, transport and other tourism businesses. It also fits Pattaya’s push to become a “Sport City” by attracting athletes, supporters and visitors.
A central purpose of LOMA RUN ON THE BEACH 2026 was charity. After expenses, proceeds will support the HHN Foundation for Thai Children (Human Help Network Foundation Thailand), which has worked for more than 15 years to protect and develop children and youth in Pattaya. Its work includes Ban Aue-Aree Child Welfare Protection Home, a children’s shelter, an ASEAN learning center, scholarships and aid for struggling families. More than 300 children are currently under the foundation’s care.
Funds from the race will go toward scholarships, facility improvements and essential costs of care, organizers said, turning a crowded beach run into support for education and a better future for disadvantaged children.
