Rolling Orders See Island Areas Contained After

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2020

thephuketnews thephuketnews1 thephuketnews.com

Friday, April 10 – Thursday, April 16, 2020 Since 2011 / Volume X / No. 15 20 Baht STRANDED RUSSIANS RECEIVE HELP > PAGE 2 NEWS PAGE 3 Dead tourist blamed for LOCKDOWN COVID spread ROLLING ORDERS SEE ISLAND AREAS CONTAINED AFTER

PATONG BLITZ TESTS LIFE PAGE 6 1,000 FOR COVID-19 Return of the real Songkran

A driver heading towards Patong shows a traditions military security officer his evidence to allow him to pass the main checkpoint set up in Kathu. Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot

The Phuket News Chalong and Kathu came under lock- “[We] ask people in the area not bolstered by the nationwide curfew [email protected] down on Tuesday. More lockdown to leave their homes or place of issued by Prime Minister Prayut which orders were expected to be issued if residence to protect themselves came into effect last Friday (Apr 3). series of orders issued by virus infections continued to spread. from infection and [because] they The nationwide curfew bans all Phuket Governor Phakaphong The orders have been publicly may be a carrier and spread the people from being on the streets from A Tavipatana has seen the main released with very little notice for CONVID-19 virus to other people.” 10pm to 4am each night unless they island tourism and residential areas people to prepare. The orders on The orders also pointed out that have express permission. Rescue isolated after Patong was “shut down” Monday came less than two hours breach of the order would violate workers, emergency personnel, of- at midnight last Saturday night (Apr before the lockdowns came into effect. Section 52 of the Communicable ficials performing their duties and PAGE 12 4), followed by Karon, Chalong, The orders on Tuesday came after Disease Act 2015, which may incur some regular citizens, such as night- SPORT Rawai and Kathu. the orders were officially in effect. a penalty of up to one year in prison shift workers, are permitted to travel The order by the Governor People in lockdown zones are or a fine of up to B100,000, or both. or transit during the curfew – but Phuket MMA to shut down Patong was posted asked to say in their homes, and All lockdown orders are must be able to prove their cause. publicly at about 11pm last Satur- public health teams will be deployed in effect until further notice. The Phuket Provincial Office rising star Kape day, and came into effect just one to check the areas for the virus. Any On Monday (Apr 6), Governor this week repeated its warnings that heading to UFC hour later, at the stroke midnight. persons in the areas who start to ex- Phakaphong also issued an order breaking the nationwide curfew con- All non-essential travel in or out perience any symptoms of infection warning that persons anywhere stituted a breach of the Emergency of the tourism town is now banned are to report to officials immediately. in Phuket found not wearing a Decree issued by PM Pryut, and in the hope of preventing a major All municipalities respon- face mask while in a public area may be punished by up to two years outbreak of the COVID-19 corona- sible for areas under lockdown risked being fined up to B20,000. in jail or a fine of up to B100,000. virus on the island. The same applies have been ordered to ensure im- Last week Governor Phakaphong In Patong, which has become the in all other areas under “lockdown” portant public areas are santised. “kindly requested the cooperation” epicentre of infections in Phuket (see by order. Karon and Rawai came In all the official lockdown -or of all people to remain indoors from page 3), health officials randomly under official lockdown on Monday. ders, Governor Phakaphong noted, 8pm-3am. That request now remains tested 1,000 people. One officer at... CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

@thephuketnews 2 PHUKET NEWS THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2020

[email protected] 6.5mn may lose jobs in COVID-19 News fallout > p5 Stranded Russians receive help After more than a week sleeping at funeral sala, moved to resort

Eakkapop Thongtub the Russian embassy of their brought the three Russians fruit [email protected] predicament, but in the mean- and other food to eat. All three time they had no money to pay of the tourists expressed their hree Russian tourists for another flight home or to deep gratitude to the generous who had been sleeping pay for any accommodation, Thai spirit. Tin an open-air building Mr Winai explained. Tourism Authority of Thai- next to the crematorium at “Our officials checked their land (TAT) Phuket Office -Di Wat Mai Khao for more than temperatures, and none of rector of Napasorn Kakai on a week as they had been unable them had a fever. They are all Monday (Apr 6) became aware to board any flights home have healthy,” Mr Winai said. of the Russians’ situation. been moved to a resort at Nai “I also gave them masks “I asked relevant officials Yang Beach. and offered them to move to to check the area for where “The owners of the resort another building, but they the foreigners could stay, and will provide free accommo- declined saying they were fine I asked for health officials dation and free meals until a where they were,” he added. check all three of the tourists plane from Russia arrives,” The Russian tourists were very Mr Winai continued to for COVID-19 just to be sure,” said Phuket Vice Governor grateful for food brought to them by check on the three tourists, while she said. Supoj Rotreuang Na Nong- local villagers. Photo: Winai Sae-iew news of their predicament made “I have also asked for local khai, who visited the Russian its way to the upper echelons officials to coordinate with the trio – Nikolai Sharov, 28; So- the exact date and time are not Baan) of Moo 4, Mai Khao. “At first local villagers of provincial administration [Russian] embassy to provide fia Sharova, 23; and Aleksei yet known,” he added. Mr Winai explained that he thought they were ghosts,” and to leading tourism officials. assistance,” she added. Galievi, 30 – at the temple last Also present at the tem- first learned that the three tour- he said. Mr Winai himself reported “Please, any tourists who Sunday (Apr 5). ple to speak with the three ists were staying at the temple The tourists explained that the situation to the Phuket need assistance, contact your “The Russian government Russians yesterday were Maj building on Mar 25, after he their flight home was cancelled Tourist Police. embassy,” Ms Napasorn con- may send a plane to pick up Ekkachai Siri of the Phuket went to investigate reports by and that they were waiting for Meanwhile, feeling sorry cluded. Russian nationals who need Tourist Police and Winai Sae- local villagers of noises coming their ticket refunds. for the tourists, local resi- Additional reporting by to get home, but at this time iew, Village Headman (Phu Yai from the building. They had already informed dents living around the temple Tanyaluk Sakoot

Lockdown orders hit main Phuket areas Continued from page 1 ...the Patong Municipality Health Division confirmed that new cases of infection had been found. However, at the time of going to press not all test results had been returned and the officer declined to confirm how many news cases had been confirmed. Phuket Immigration on Tuesday set up mobile units at Patong Immigration Office, at Chalong Police Station and at Karon Po- lice Station. The units are to be open from A motorcyclist is checked. 10am to 3pm workdays, and are empow- ered to issue extensions to long stay visas visit an immigration office constitutes “essential (more than 30 days), short stay visas (30 travel” and foreigners en route to or from an days or less), re-entry permits as well as immigration office in Phuket will be permitted residence notifications and 90-day reports. to pass the checkpoints set up across the island. Phuket Immigration Deputy Chief Also allowed through the check- Col Nareuwat Putthawiro confirmed to points are any persons heading to the air- The Phuket News on Tuesday that the need to port on an outbound flight home, he said.

thephuketnews THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2020 THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2020 PHUKET NEWS 3 Tourist blamed for infections COVID-19 may have contributed to Hungarian tourist’s death, says doctor

The Phuket News At approximately 2:40am not infected, while the rest [email protected] last Friday (Apr 3) the patient are still waiting for the result, was found as registering no he added. Hungarian tourist pulse. Doctors administered Patong has become a who died after a CPR but it transpired it was hotbed for the spread of A serious road acci- too late to revive him and the disease with 70 of 123 dent could have contracted he was pronounced dead, Dr cases officially recognised COVID-19 whilst in hospital Chalermpol said. “as confirmed” by the Phuket which may have contributed The tourist had been under Communicable Disease Com- to his death. care and close observation mittee, which is chaired by The 25-year-old male was in the hospital for a total of Phuket Governor Phakaphong involved in a serious crash 10 days. Tavipatana. in the early hours of Mar 25 Dr Chalermpong did admit However, the number of although the specifics of his that although the injuries cases being reported by of- accident were not disclosed sustained in the crash were ficials in Phuket has come un- by Vachira Phuket Hospital almost certainly the cause of der dispute in the past week. Director Dr Chalermpong death, coronavirus could have On Monday (Apr 6), Bangkok Sukontapol, who explained played a part in his demise. health officials reported an the death of the tourist to In explaining the death official total of 135 confirmed the press on Monday (Apr 6). of the tourist to the press, Dr cases in Phuket while Phuket The tourist was taken to Chalermpong focused heavily officials reported only 123. Chalong Hospital at 4:30am on the need for patients to tell On Monday, the Phuket Com- then transferred to Vachira medical staff about their pos- municable Disease Com- Phuket Hospital an hour later. sible exposure to COVID-19 mittee reported just four Dr Chalermpong con- risk areas. new confirmed cases, while firmed that on arrival the Vachira Phuket Hospital Director Dr Chalermpong Sukontapol. Photo: PR Dept Of 112 medical staff at maintaining that 98 persons man was still able to talk and Chalong Hospital and Vachira were waiting for test results communicate but was unable badly injured, affecting his a high fever and temperature He was taken to an isola- Phuket Hospital, 108 have – despite Dr Chalermpong to move his arms and legs. nervous system. He under- and was tested for corona- tion ward in the NomKhrao been exposed to high risk on the same day, Monday, He did not undergo any went an operation around virus, returning a positive building of the hospital and patients and were instructed to claiming that 94 of the staff testing for coronavirus at 3:30pm later that day but was result. He then admitted to placed under observation. All self-quarantine at PSU Phuket involved with the Hungarian this stage, he also confirmed. unable to regain functionality medical staff that he had been medical staff who had been in campus, Supitcha Hotel, and tourist had been tested and After initial x-rays it was in his arms and legs. a regular visitor to Bangla contact with the patient were their own houses, he said. were not infected, while the revealed that a crucial part of Several days later, on Mar Rd in Patong during the two asked to self-quarantine for Ninety-four of the staff rest are still waiting for the his spinal column had been 31, the patient complained of weeks before his accident. 14 days. have been tested and were results.

Ban on inbound passenger flights extended THE BAN ON ALL INBOUND INTER- national passenger flights into Thailand has been extended through to April 18. Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) Director-General Chula Sukmanop last week ordered a three-day ban on all inbound international passenger flights. The ban started last Friday (Apr 3) and was to conclude at midnight Monday (Apr 6). However, Mr Chula issued a new notice late Monday afternoon, just hours before the A staffer at Phuket airport holds up a photos initial ban issued on Friday was to expire. comparing how empty the airport is with The new order extended the ban from the ban in effect. Photo: AoT Phuket 00:01am Tuesday (Apr 7) through to 23:59pm on April 18. or relief flights, cargo flights and any flights The ban does not apply to state or military arriving in Thailand to repatriate nationals aircraft, emergency landing, technical landing back to their home countries. without disembarkation, humanitarian, medical The Phuket News

thephuketnews @thephuketnews 4 BUSINESS NEWS THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2020

PHUKET SEVEN DAY WEATHER FORECAST www.foreca.com

FRI APR 10 SAT APR 11 SUN APR 12 MON APR 13 TUE APR 14 WED APR 15 THU APR 16 CONTACT US [email protected] 076 612 550

PURIYA BEAVAN Editor High: +35° High: +36° High: +35° High: +35° High: +35° High: +35° High: +35° Low: +27° Low: +27° Low: +27° Low: +28° Low: +28° Low: +27° Low: +27° Wind 2m/s Wind 2 m/s Wind 2 m/s Wind 2 m/s Wind 2 m/s Wind 2 m/s Wind 2 m/s CHRIS HUSTED Executive Editor 084 307 7408 [email protected]

BEN TIREBUCK News / Sport Editor 061 806 8132 Pandemic and property [email protected] How will the COVID-19 crisis affect the long term?

TANYALUK ‘MANGO’ SAKOOT THE PHUKET Chief Reporter 091 165 0260 [email protected] PROPERTY GUIDE

Thai Residential [email protected]

KHUNANYA ‘FON’ WANCHANWET Reporter ow will the current global 091 165 0259 [email protected] situation affect the Phuket Hproperty sector? Given the economic uncertainty unleashed by the COVID-19 pandemic, there KIATTIKUL ‘JOM’ CHUMANEE seems to be a widespread belief Translator 082 729 0270 [email protected] that this should have some kind of a knock-on effect on the Phuket real estate sector. Many potential buy- ers see this as opportunity to hunt

JASON BEAVAN for bargain basement prices in the General Manager 086 479 7471 [email protected] months ahead. But will the likely economic slowdown we face really lead to lower prices across the board? Well,

SIRIPORN (NOK) this remains to be seen. While there SEANGMAS Sales Support may be bargains to be found on 086 479 7470 [email protected] global stock markets, the multitude of discounted properties which many are expecting (and hoping) to find in

KANOKWAN (MEO) Phuket may never materialise. We RUNGSEANG Sales Representative did hint at this in our last article, and 088 754 1371 [email protected] promised to expand upon it. Everyone loves a good deal, and finding a property bargain is espe- cially gratifying. Properties regularly KATHERINE (KAT) JONES hit the market at ridiculously attrac- Sales Representative 081 841 3703 Mohamed Hassan / Pixabay [email protected] tive prices, and these get snapped up almost as soon as they are listed. While we have seen such bargains shirt political disruptions. Globally For every bargain that comes on have received with holiday rentals, NIRAVIT ‘MOS’ VORAVANITCHA THANAPONG ‘OAK’ KHAO-AMPHAIPHAN already this year, their sale price we have seen 9-11, the dot-com the market in Phuket there are 25 but they are not panicking and they Graphic designers had nothing to do with coronavirus bubble popping and the 2008 global people who have been hunting that are certainly not selling. or its aftermath. financial crisis with its destructive bargain – sometimes for months. Finally, we must mention the The Phuket News @thephuketnews A highly motivated seller – some- credit crunch. Each of these events Such a deeply discounted property tourists who are not traveling to one who must liquidate a property resulted in a contraction in tourism, is sold before most people ever saw Phuket at this time – whether by quickly – may list a truly cut-price but not once in the last two decades it listed. personal choice or due to national villa or condo, but such owners in did we see property prices fall sig- Most of the “bargains” found travel bans. Nearly EVERY airline Phuket are very rarely that desperate nificantly. Instead, prices stagnated today are properties bought 10 is offering some form of credit for to sell. This owes much to Phuket’s for a period of time – a sideways years ago (or more) by people from travel to be completed either by the foreign real estate sector being a cash movement rather than a collapse. countries such as Sweden, Russia end of 2020 or within 12 months. market with almost no borrowing. We Sellers of real estate in Phuket or Australia. Their currencies have We have spoken with hundreds of estimate that only 1% of properties are very rarely desperate for money depreciated against the baht, so people who have postponed their sold to foreigners here have any bank because, unlike sellers in most other even by selling at a supposedly low trips, but they are all planning to lending, so neither unemployment countries, they did not borrow beyond price, the stronger baht means they be in Phuket by the end of the year. nor a credit crunch is going to affect their means to finance the property in are still making a tidy profit in their We don’t know when travel bans mortgage payments. the first place. Saying that, we may home currency. will be lifted. We don’t know when The peaks and troughs found in yet see “motivated sellers” begin to There has also been a change in tourism will return to normal. But other property markets around the reduce prices to make their properties rental focus by property owners, we do know that every significant world are generally caused by credit more attractive. People sometimes but this actually started a year ago hit to Phuket tourism in history has drying up and the subsequent risk “buy the dream” and their irrational or so in the wake of the government been temporary, and Phuket always of foreclosure. Because this is a or emotional purchase may have cost enforcing short-term rental regula- bounces back. We can expect nothing systemic problem across the broader them significantly more than their tions. Owners began to shift their less this time. economy, some people are forced to property was worth. After a period attention from the holiday market to “fire sale” their home, either to avoid of denial, and if money becomes longer-term residential rentals, and This article was provided by Thai losing it completely or to plug holes tight, they may need to raise cash this trend has intensified due to the Residential, creators of the 2018/2019 elsewhere in their finances. Phuket quickly, finally cutting their losses recent drop off in tourism. Because Phuket Property Guide. To view the does not experience the same vola- and offloading the property at a the foreign residential population 2019/2020 Thai Residential Phuket tility because there is virtually no lower price. today is significantly higher than it Property Guide online, visit thairesi- borrowing/leverage in the market. But this is highly unlikely to oc- was during previous crises, it has dential.com/phuket-property-guide. In the last 20 years, Phuket has cur on a scale that would precipitate been no real struggle to find tenants. You can also contact Thai Residential faced bird flu, SARS, the tsunami, the same widespread drop in prop- Owners must accept slightly lower directly at Email: phuket@thairesi- military coups and red-shirt, yellow- erty prices seen in other countries. annualised returns than they would dential.com or Tel: +66 9484 11918.

thephuketnews THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2020 THAILAND NEWS 5 COVID-19 forces scared 144,000 lose jobs in shutdown sex workers onto streets THAILAND THAILAND MORE THAN 140,000 EM- AFP ployees lost their jobs last month due to the fallout from he nationwide shutdown to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, the COVID-19 coronavirus has according to the Department Tkilled Thailand’s party scene. of Employment. Red-light districts from Bangkok to The Employers’ Confed- Pattaya have gone quiet with night clubs eration of Thai Trade and and massage parlours closed and tour- Industry has also estimated ists blocked from entering the country. that from March until the That has left an estimated 300,000 end of the pandemic at least sex workers out of a job, pressing some 6.5 million will be put out of A man settles in at a onto the streets where the risks are work, if migrant workers and homeless shelter in Prawet sharpened by the pandemic. those in the informal sector district, Bangkok. Photo: “I’m afraid of the virus but I need to Red-light districts have gone quiet with night clubs and massage parlours are accounted for, as a result Bangkok Post find customers so I can pay for my room closed and tourists blocked from entering the country. Photo: AFP of the COVID-19 outbreak. and food,” Pim, a 32-year-old transgender Suchat Pornchaiwiseskul, Labour Minister MR Chatu sex worker told AFP. ing to official figures at time of press. The already high risks of sex work director-general of the de- Mongol Sonakul said that Since last Friday (Apr 3) Thais have Pim is paying a heavy price for the have rocketed as the virus spreads and partment, said that a total people who have lost their been under a 10pm to 4am curfew. Bars movement restrictions – she has not had there are fears the malaise could last for of 144,861 people signed up jobs because their employers and eat-in restaurants closed several a customer for 10 days and the bills are months, yanking billions of tourist dol- to receive unemployment had to cease their business as days earlier. stacking up. lars from the economy and leaving those benefits in March – a 72% a result of the outbreak are Many of Bangkok’s sex workers working in the informal sector destitute. rise from the figure in Febru- entitled to 70% of their final had jobs in the relative safety of bars, High risk Women are suffering the most from ary when 84,177 people filed month’s wage for six months working for tips and willing to go home Her friend Alice, another transgender the virus measures. Many are mothers for benefits, or almost 100% up to B15,000 in total. with customers. sex worker, has also been forced to move and their family’s main income earner, more than January’s figure For those who resigned, When their workplaces suddenly from a go-go bar to the roadside. forced into sex work by lack of oppor- of 74,775. the percentage falls to 45%, closed most returned home to wait out “I used to make decent money, tunities or low graduate salaries. He said that people who the minister said. the crisis. Others like Pim went to work sometimes B10,000-20,000 a week,” “I think the government has been have contributed to the So- If employees have to go the streets. Alice says. really slow. They don’t care about people cial Security Fund for at into a 14-day quarantine, they The government says it is ready to “But when businesses shut down my like us who work in the sex industry,” least six consecutive months can register for compensation enforce a 24-hour curfew if necessary income stopped too. We are doing this Alice said. can register for the help via with the Social Security Office, to control a virus that has infected more because we’re poor. If we can’t pay our “We’re more afraid of having nothing https://empui.doe.go.th or by MR Chatu Mongol added. than 2,220 people and killed 26, accord- hotel they will kick us out.” to eat than the virus,” she concluded. phoning 1506. Bangkok Post

@thephuketnews 6 CULTURE THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2020 Lessons from yesteryear How the quiet roots of Songkran can help us today A young monk quietly reflects with water. Photo: Sasin Tipchai / Pixabay

today. But, that doesn’t necessarily months were all different than system. This was equalized on April 1, 1920, when ALL ABOUT mean that the celebration is com- what we are accustomed to in everyone had to move their clocks roughly 18 minutes BUDDHISM pletely over. modern times. ahead, for good. Days were divided into four six-hour You see, Songkran was not al- Months alternated between 29 time periods. Jason A. Jellison [email protected] ways the huge street party which and 30 days. Years were either Technically, the Songkran we know is really one we have grown accustomed to. In 354, 355, or occasionally 384 days of 12 songkrans. ‘Songkran’ (or “Sam-kranti” in my t was the biggest water ancient times it actually had very long. On a long year, the eighth Sanskrit-English dictionary) translates to ‘movement,’ festival in the world. The quiet, very spiritual beginnings, month would be repeated, and and a ‘songkran’ marks the movement as the sun tran- party lasted all night long. and, if we understand those by- months were subdivided into two sits out of one Zodiacal position and into another. The Every year, it attracted over gone days, perhaps we might be periods. Songkran we celebrate today simply marks the most 500,000 foreign tourists; to able to repurpose them to cel- Months were structured such important transition, which is when the sun transits say nothing of the millions ebrate Songkran in these trying that the first 15 days of a month out of Pisces and into Aries, thus ending the old year. Thais who perennially re- times today. occurred when the moon was ‘wax- In ancient times, Songkran was not a gigantic wa- turned to their hometowns In ancient times, Songkran es- ing’ (the time required for a new ter fight. In fact, the original idea was to mark the in anticipation of the celebration. It sentially marked the beginning of moon to mature into a full moon). changing of the year by having younger people gently Ibrought in revenue of over B22 bil- the Siamese New Year. Old Siam The last two weeks of the month sprinkle their elders (aged 60 and up) with holy water. lion and, well, I suppose you really functioned on a lunisolar Buddhist centered around the time required The hope was that the holy water would wash away the could say “it was the biggest show calendar and this differentiated for a full moon to retire into a new sins and sorrows of the past year, and it would not be on Earth!” Siam from the West in a number of moon, or as the moon was ‘waning.’ unfair to speculate that many people would hope for a The ‘it’ I am referring to is, of interesting ways. The names of the months were prosperous new year. course, the traditional Thai New The traditional Siamese cal- drawn from ancient Khmer. Traditionally, many Thais would return to their vil- Year (Songkran), and it has been endar was a Zodiac calendar, and The entire traditional Siamese lages in order to mark the holiday. Many young boys greatly scaled back this year due Zodiacal calendars operate on Calendar was based on four lunar would ordain and become novice monks, and prayers to the outbreak of COVID-19. systems comprised of 12 ‘signs’. stages, and this played a role in would be offered for dearly departed loved ones. Usually, areas like Old Phuket A sign represented 30 degrees of determining when great feasts The sprinkling of holy water was much more of a Town and downtown Bangkok are graduated transit in the stars; and Buddhist Holy Days would quiet, subdued affair than it is now. Rather than hav- normally jam packed with jubi- culminating in a 12-month sys- be marked. On today’s calendars, ing water fights in the streets, in these days you would lant revelers of virtually all ages, tem. But, this system had some Songkran would generally be have seen street stalls that were stacked with piles of and all nationalities. But this differences from what we are ac- marked on April 13, but ancient hand-rolled cigarettes, handmade baskets, and inside year, that’s probably not going to customed to in the West. Siamese people would have known those baskets could have been many wonderful hand- happen. First, months were counted this date under the terms of their crafted treats, like rice balls or any number of sweet Sadly, there could be no more from December as a starting calendar. desserts – many of which still are popular to this day efficient method to dramatically point, not January. Also, the cel- Days were similar to what we and are referred to by Thais as Khaaw Tom. spread COVID-19 than to celebration of the New Year occurred know today. However, Siamese Out in the town square, you would have seen Bud- ebrate the traditional Thai New in April, instead of on the more time was 17 minutes and 56 sec- dha statues having water poured over their torsos Year in the ways which we often do familiar January 1. Plus, the onds out of sync with the modern and, inside the local temples, great sermons would be recited from senior monks standing behind long, flow- ing scrolls. Reenactments of great Buddhist stories were often conducted, and some of these reenactments even included choreographed historical reenactment on elephant-back. Fish would frequently be released into local rivers for good luck, and many locals would bring sand to their temples as a gift. Yet, Songkran would have been at its most quaint in very small, very rural communities. In thatched vil- lages with little more than a few dozen residents, it is obvious that Songkran would have been a very quiet family or community affair; this year, those are the days which we probably have to return to for a while. I know many junior Buddhist monks who recently finished ordination, and they tell me that they will skip large groups and gatherings, but are planning on a quiet celebration with their families. They still intend to sprinkle holy water on their elder relatives, and several former monks I know are planning to make large feasts while they stay at home. Since large gatherings are out this year, the best we can do is rediscover Songkran in its early, more in- timate days. With a little creativity, we can repurpose that knowledge for a safe and happy Songkran today. As of the time of this writing, travel options will simply be unknown. Thus, rediscovering the days of very small gatherings could be timely. The celebration will never be over for Songkran as long as we celebrate it in our hearts and homes. We may have to go ‘back to basics’ this year, but knowing the history of Songkran might help us overcome our temporary circumstances. Someday, we will return to normal times. Someday, things are going to get better… and, when that day comes, we shall arise stronger than ever.

thephuketnews THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2020 DINING 7 Fine dining gone viral A MEAL WITH...

Baz Daniel [email protected]

o say that we live in challeng- ing times is a bit like saying Donald Trump may not be the smartest kid on the block – a huge understatement. The COVID-19 viral crisis has exploded with unprecedented speed and venom hitting every aspect of Phuket life, none more so than Tthe all-important tourist industry and within that our once- thriving fine dining sector. As I write this, all restaurants have had to temporarily close and while many fine dining establishments around the Andaman had already put in place some excellent initiatives to protect the health and wellbeing of After the virus wave has passed, the tables will turn. their customers, how will this sector cope once it re-opens to life in the “new going out for a fine meal in lovely sur- team members, will have easy access members are fully prepared to provide normal” with COVID-19 as an ongoing roundings and a bit of banter with your to health stations with hand wipes, information and updates to our guests factor? pals may be exactly what that harried hand soap and hygiene gel, while all and we will also ensure that the table Not many weeks ago the main chal- doctor would actually have suggested, kitchen staff and food-handlers wear next to the yours stays empty so we lenge to enjoying Phuket’s multiplicity had she had a spare moment to see you! gloves and respiratory protection at all can secure a safe distance between our of fine dining options was choosing There’s ample research proving that times. guests.” from the abundance of tantalising fresh, healthy foods, upbeat social inter- “All areas of the restaurant are Let us all hope that fine dining cuisines, locations, views, ambiances, action, enlivening beach and waterside regularly and thoroughly cleaned to in Phuket re-opens very soon and styles, price-points and complementary locales, and even the anti-oxidant res- the highest standards, paying special we are able to recommence enjoying drinks lists available. veratrol found in the red, grape-based attention to high-touch areas such as one of those very rare things in life… Once the sector re-opens, hopefully complementary beverage which often door handles, elevator button, etc. an activity which is both immensely in a just few weeks’ time, the chal- goes with this attractive package, will “Ongoing training and staff meet- pleasurable and very good for us at the lenge will be firstly to steel yourself to all boost your immune system, making ings will continue to ensure that team same time! go out to dine at all, and also to find you stronger, more virus-resistant and a conducive location offering healthy, enhancing your mental outlook. immunity-boosting cuisine in an en- Think of Phuket’s booming beach vironment that is safe and allows club scene where internationally-fa- sufficient social distancing! mous outlets like Xana, Catch, Dream, However, the reality is that in Café del Mar and HQ Beach Clubs offer Phuket we are actually spoilt for choice fabulous healthy food, in equally fabu- when it comes to gorgeous indoor/ lous, healthy surroundings! outdoor restaurant settings, which fa- They also tend to be situated in cilitate the flow of fresh clean breezes, large open, well-ventilated spaces, abundant space for sensible social where social distancing (should that be distancing, and food choices which are your choice!) is easy and you can even both healthy and contain many ingre- get a well aerated work-out by dancing dients that are scientifically proven to to the pulsating beats with sand be- enhance our immune systems. tween your toes and a new moon rising Counter-intuitive though it may be, above the palm fronds! Or think of legendary beachside restaurants offering outside terraces such as at the Boathouse on Kata; Kata Rocks poolside; Mom Tri’s Villa Roy- ale overlooking Kata Noi; and the Nai Harn’s Rock Salt, Hansha and Cosmo restaurants all overlooking Nai Harn Beach. Each of these fabulous outlets enable you to dine on healthy cuisine on an outdoor terrace, where social distancing is easy, invigorating island breezes keep you well ventilated, while you gaze upon the most fabulous island vistas. Just what the doctor might have ordered! One of the most inspiring initiatives within the fine dining ambit comes from Bart Dykers and Thomas Brack who own and manage the 9th Floor restaurant in Patong, surely one of Phuket’s most ground-breaking eater- ies since its launch in 2003. Bart told us: “When we re-open the 9th Floor our greatest priority is that our guests and team members feel safe and secure in our restaurant and to ensure this, we have put in place enhancements to our already rigorous cleaning regimen. “Everyone, including guests and

@thephuketnews 8 TIME OUT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2020

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York Across 66. Boat with an open 27. Buffalo 1. Setback hold 29. Stumblebum 5. Ogres 67. Itty-bitty bit 9. Called balls and strikes 68. Gas-reducing 30. Kind of job 1. What is the correct name of The Who rock song often called 14. “Strength , Courage supplement 32. Horror writer, Edgar “Teenage Wasteland”? and Wisdom, singer, 69. Slow gait Allan 2. Robert Downey, Jr.’s birthday was on April 4. How old is he? India 70. Barbershop 33. Employer’s 3. This week COVID-19 passed the milestone of infecting more 15. Kinks song request than a million people worldwide. Which country has had the 16. Teases 71. Reality show judge proposal most confirmed infections? 17. Color hue Cowell 34. Sign of late 4. The orantique, or tangor, fruit is a combination of which two 18. Biblical shepherd 72. Deep desires summer fruits? 19. “Love Story” star 73. ____ right up 20. Intense stage of 35. Galore, in disco 5. What is the Italian word meaning “scratched drawing”? conflict Down lingo Answers below, centre 23. Alternatively, in ___ 1. Framework for 37. Man-mouse link of plaster 38. In that case 24. Overseas refusal 2. Large bay window 25. ___-relief (sculpture 3. Moses’s mountain 41. UK ship titles Hard style) 4. Medium-sized sofa 42. E.R. workers SUDOKU 28. Causes of personality 5. Norwegian king and 43. Prefix with centric clashes saint 31. View 6. ___ Report (luxury 48. Salem’s home 33. Some reproductive lifestyle magazine) 49. ‘On the Media’ airer cells 7. Fresh from the 51. Fesses up 36. Red River capital shower 39. Diamond Head locale 8. Off-color 54. Play ___ for me 40. Rally cry for many 9. Horseshoe-shaped 55. Start of an oath revolutions fasteners 57. Halt 44. ‘’___ Russia with 10. Challenge for a 58. Bright-eyed Couric Love’’ barber 45. “I __ born yesterday!” 11. ___ in the sky 59. The ‘’A’’ in A.D. 46. Saturate 12. LAX landing 60. Canadian bird Solutions to last week’s puzzles: 47. Spurs approximation 61. 100-lb. units 50. Workplace safety org. 13. High-speed 52. Pal of Piglet Internet inits. 62. Pack (down) 53. Tach readings 21. Should, with “to” 63. Evening news 56. Site of Theo. 22. Leaves from China, producers Roosevelt Natl. Park often 64. Hawaiian headwear 59. The Battle of Britain, 25. Hippy necklace for example 26. Allergy season 65. “___ ... I Said” (Neil

63. Stick sound Diamond)

Answers to thisGraffiti 5) week’stangerine; a and Pop Quiz:

orange An 4) States; United 55;3) 2) O’Reilly; Baba 1)

GOT YOUR ISLAND VIEW NUMBER 1 tree cut down for paper production in Sweden is replaced by three new trees planted. 6' 2" or taller makes you taller than 94% of the world’s population. 11 days and 25 minutes is the world record for not sleeping.

126 Cooking with a smile. Photo: Gianni Bordani gallons is the formal volume Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket? Email it to [email protected] measurement for a Buttload. 1 This week in history April 10, 1812 April 12, 1945 April 15, 1912 Mount Tambora volcano in Indo- US President Franklin D. Roosevelt The RMS Titanic sinks in the million nesia begins a three-month-long dies in office; Vice President Harry North Atlantic at 2:20am, two eruption. In total, the eruption kills Truman, becomes President upon hours and 40 minutes after hitting US dollars is how much the 71,000 people and affects Earth’s Roosevelt’s death. an iceberg. Only 710 of 2,227 pas- show ‘Friends’ generates in climate for the next two years. sengers and crew on board survive. syndication revenue each April 13, 1997 ‘Sinking of the Titanic’ by Willy Stower. year. Each of the six main April 11, 1981 At 21 years old, Tiger Woods April 16, 1943 cast members earns about A massive riot in Brixton, south becomes the youngest golfer to April 14, 1986 Albert Hofmann accidentally dis- 2% of that… roughly US$20 London, results in almost 300 win the Masters Tournament, The heaviest hailstones ever re- covers the effects of the research million a year. police injuries and 65 serious winning the competition by a corded (1kg) fall on the Gopalganj drug LSD. He intentionally takes it civilian injuries. record-breaking 12 strokes. district of Bangladesh, killing 92. three days later. Source: Wikipedia

thephuketnews THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2020 CLASSIFIEDS 9

The Phuket News Trades & Services @thephuketnews

CORPORATE SERVICES HOME IMPROVEMENT HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT HOME IMPROVEMENT PERSONAL SERVICE

MARINE SERVICES MARINE SERVICES MARINE SERVICES

PERSONAL SERVICE OTHER ADVERTISE HERE

@thephuketnews 10 EVENTS & CLASSIFIEDS THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2020

10 12 PROPERTY FRI APR SUN APR FOR SALE

Property for Sale Ocean View Kata. Fully furnished 1 bedroom condo 44.2.s.q.m. Sea & Sunset views over Kata bay. TAKE AWAY ONLY TAKE AWAY ONLY 3.9MB o.n.o. For details email [email protected] Mussels night All you can eat @ Shakers BOATS, YACHTS Sunday Roast Buffet FOR RENT 1.2kg mussels served with French Beef, Pork and Lamb – Cauliflower, Broccoli, fries, your choice, your style: natural, Peas, Carrots, fried mushrooms, grilled toma- marnière, Provençale, garlic and cream toes – Yorkshire pudding – roasted potatoes, or Thai style. Reservations recommended B295 P/P. [email protected] mashed potatoes – gravy, mushroom sauce, mint 081 891 4381. sauce. Reservations recommended. B350 P/P. [email protected] 081 891 4381.

11 13 Fully equipped APR APR Liveaboard 4 sale SAT MON 24m Live-aboard sleeps 22 Divers with all extras for diving included Dingy Tanks compressors Now running with Guest Joseph Hue, 48/13 Thai Mueang Phang-Nga, [email protected], 0878918912. BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Investor With 90 million THB of Clean Funding to Invest In Deep Sea Fisheries Project Required Investor With 90 million THB of Clean Funding to Invest In Deep Sea Fisheries Project Required Project would be eligible for Thailand Board Of Investment approval with 5 year tax breaks. Project calls for the importation / Thai Flagging- Registration of 2 fully operational Pelagic Tuna & Swordfish Longline Vessels currently operating successfully in the TAKE AWAY ONLY TAKE AWAY ONLY Indian Ocean Fishery. Thailand Domestic & Japan Fresh-Chilled Auction Floor Export Markets targeted. Thai Captains / Australian-NZ Pelagic Longline Fishing Masters-Crew Trainers on each vessel with minimum 50% Thailand National Crew. Writer is Australian National Fishing Vessel Manager / Pelagic Longline Fishing Master / Marine Engine Driver / All you can eat BBQ night Crew Trainer who has been catching & exporting sashimi grade fish killed by the Ikijimi method to the Japanese Auction All you can eat Floor since 1978. Advertiser has previously been employed as Chief Engineer on 1 of the vessels to be purchased & been 6pm – 11pm: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, employed as Captain/Fishing Master on the other Vessel to be purchased. It is time to develop the totally undeveloped Sausages, Prawns and Squid, Salad buffet, BBQ Ribs night Thai Flagged Pelagic Longline Fishery. Qualified Investors Post Your Confidential Register Of Interest to; Capt. Brad Choice of potatoes and sauces, bread, buns 6PM – 11PM: All you can eat BBQ Ribs served Durkin - PESCADOR SEAWAY Co., Ltd - P.O. BOX 144, Phuket Post Office, Phuket 83000. Capt. Brad Durkin, P.O. BOX 144, Phuket Post Office, Phuket, 83000 and garlic bread. Reservation recommend- with salad buffet, potato salad & choice of sauc- ed. B395 P/P. [email protected] es. Reservation recommended. 295 baht P./P. 081 891 4381. [email protected], 081 891 4381.

22 PROPERTY FOR SALE PROPERTY FOR SALE MAY Price Reduced FRI Superb large Laguna Rawai Pool Villa Townhouse Secluded Rawai Pool Villa on 1600 sqm land URGENT SALE Beautiful and completely renovated villa, plot A good opportunity to buy a furnished, well new windows, doors, plumbing, air con- constructed and maintained three bedroom, two ditioning and much more situated on a bathroom pool villa in large mature gardens in large plot of 910 sq. metres in the heart a very quiet, peaceful cul de sac. This private of Laguna in a quite cul-de-sac of just 8 home of 172 sqm sits on a large plot with a Cha- properties and walking distance of 5 min- note land title. It is within walking distance from a busy main road with numerous utes to Boat Avenue, Central and all Laguna amenities and superb beaches restaurants, bars and assorted retail outlets. Enter through the remote controlled of Bangtao and Layan. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, large office/5th bedroom, front gate up the 70 m long picturesque drive to park in either the double sized fully fitted European kitchen, large lounge and dining with high ceilings, pool, covered car port, or double garage, which also has a remote controlled electric relaxation sala , outdoor dining and wonderful gardens. Fabulous example door. The teak front door opens into a spacious main living dining area of over of a Laguna Home and includes free membership of Laguna Golf Club for 2 80 sqm. There are marble floors throughout the property. The master en suite adults and 2 children and discounts on all F and B and services throughout bedroom is 27 sqm, the second bedroom is 15 sqm and the third bedroom is Laguna Phuket. 23.5 million Baht, [email protected], 0898737075. 14sqm. The modern, western style kitchen / utility room of 14sqm has a Hafele oven and extractor hood and Smeg electric/gas hob. The room includes a very large side by side fridge freezer, wine fridge, plus a front loading washer drier. At the front of the villa is a 10m x 4m salt water chlorinated swimming pool with Villa in Patong prime LED lighting. One end of the pool is a Sala with a table and 4 chairs, while at location the other end is an outdoor Jacuzzi complete with an ornamental water feature. Villa in Patong , top condition. Can generate The properly is conveniently located close to the following locations:- Saiyuan 1.3 MB tourist rental income/y . 3 bed, 3 Road 2 minutes, Friendship Beach 5 minutes, Nai Harn Beach 10 minutes, bath, 160sqm living. Furnished, 12.9 MB Ya Nui Beach 10 minutes, Central Festival Mall 30 minutes. 21,900,000, Paul, o.n.o.. Ms. Manatchanok, 0800409411. [email protected], 0848384607. The 5th annual Phuket Hospitality Challenge 2020 The 5th annual Phuket Hospitality Challenge 2020 is open for registration. The event brings together the Industry’s top professionals for an enjoyable day of golf and sampling of some of the finest food and beverage anywhere on a golf course. Once again the aim is to raise vital funds for the Children’s First Fund Charity, which looks after orphaned children all over Phuket with education and sustenance. Contact Mark at [email protected] or Laguna Golf Phuket for further information. CARS, TRUCKS FOR SALE

Toyota Corolla Altis Toyota Corolla Altis 1600cc Just one Lady URGENT owner from new. Replacement 1800cc En- gine approx 50,000km ago. Air Condition- ing. Extra Dark Tinted Windows. Full Leather interior. Drivers Airbag. Power Steering. Re- mote Central locking. Full Infra Red Alarm. Alloy Wheels with 4-good Pirelli’s. Electric Windows and Mirrors. 4-speed Automatic. Drives Great. Road Tax paid until 25.10.2020. Priced for fast sale THB 99,000. 99,000, [email protected], 0835237092.

thephuketnews THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2020 SPORT 11 Sports habits COVID-19 Tawa set to appeal ‘unfair’ doping ban could wipe out for good WEIGHTLIFTING ALL SPORTS THE THAI AMATEUR Weightlifting Association AFP (Tawa) will appeal the In- s the coronavirus ternational Weightlifting brings the interna- Federation’s (IWF) ruling Ational sports calendar which bans its athletes from to a grinding halt, we look at taking part in the Tokyo three long-standing habits Olympics, among other Sarat Sumpradit during which could change forever sanctions, over doping. a training session in July once competition resumes. “It is too harsh and 2019. Photo: AFP unfair,” IWF vice president Let’s not shake on it Intarat Yodbangtoey said November 2018 from “target Pre-match handshakes were in a press release issued by athletes” at the world cham- abandoned in top football Tawa. “Tawa will appeal pionships in Turkmenistan. leagues just before the sports to the Court of Arbitration Tawa bosses claimed shutdown. for Sport (CAS) to seek they and their athletes were Premier League lead- fairness.” innocent and blamed their ers Liverpool also banned Maj Gen Intarat, a for- Chinese coach for using the used of mascots while mer Tawa president, said gel with banned substances Southampton warned against the IWF had suspended without their knowledge. players signing autographs China and Russia for only The Chinese coach has and stopped them posing one year in similar cases since been sent home, ac- for selfies. in the past. cording to Tawa. Away from football, the Spit it out! Australia fast bowler The IWF said in a state- The country was also NBA urged players to opt Pat Cummins. Photo: AFP ment on April 4 that athletes involved in a doping scandal for the fist bump rather than from Thailand, as well as in 2011 when seven teen- the long-standing high-five. handshake,” she told the New we’re that worried about the duty at the Davis Cup tie those from Malaysia, “shall age girls were banned after “I ain’t high-fiving nobody York Times in March. spread, I’m not sure we’d be between Japan and Ecuador not compete at the Tokyo testing positive. for the rest of my life after playing sport.” wore gloves. Baskets, mean- Games, regardless of the Among them were this,” NBA superstar LeBron Saliva to take shine off while, were made available for change of date”. Sukanya and Chitchanok James told the “Road Trippin’ swing bowling Towels in tennis players to deposit their towels. The IWF also imposed a Pulsabsakul who were sus- Podcast”. It’s been a tried and trusted - no touching Back in 2018, the ATP US$200,000 (B6.5 million) pended for two years and Basketball stars were also friend to fast bowlers through- Tennis players throwing tow- introduced towel racks at some fine on Tawa. were both named again in told not to take items such out the history of cricket. els, dripping with sweat and events on a trial basis, but not Eight Thai weightlifters, the 2018 case. as balls or teams shirts to But the days of applying blood and probably a tear or everyone was overjoyed. including 2016 Rio Olympic Weightlifting is Thai- autograph. saliva to one side of the ball two, at ball boys and girls, has “I think having the towel champions Sukanya Srisurat land’s most successful sport US women’s football star to encourage swing could often left fans sympathising whenever you need it, it’s very and Sopita Tanasan, tested at the Olympics with five Megan Rapinoe says edicts be over in the aftermath of for the youngsters. helpful. It’s one thing less that positive for banned sub- gold medals, followed by to ban handshakes or even COVID-19. Moves by officials to tackle you have to think about,” said stances at the 2018 world boxing with four. high-fives may be counter- “As a bowler I think it the issue took on greater ur- Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas championships. They are also the only productive anyway. would be pretty tough going gency in March when the when he was playing at the The Thais were caught two Thai sports associa- “We’re going to be sweat- if we couldn’t shine the ball in coronavirus was taking a NextGen Finals in Milan. when the IWF carried out tions which have brought ing all over each other all a Test match,” said Australia global grip. “I think it’s the job of the extra tests in Cologne, Ger- Olympic gold medals to game, so it sort of defeats paceman Pat Cummins. Behind closed doors in ball kids to provide towels and many, on samples taken in the country. Bangkok Post the purpose of not doing a “If it’s at that stage and Miki, ball boys and girls on balls for the players.”

@thephuketnews THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2020

[email protected] COVID-19 may change sports Sport habits > p11 KAPE TO HIT UFC

Manel Kape, seen with the team at AKA Thailand gym, points to his UFC contract. Photo: AKA Thailand

yet been confirmed as to “We have no doubt he will zugaki by knockout, both has been based at the famed you fuel to show who you are. MMA Kape’s first opponent, he has be a UFC Champion one day,” bouts being held in Japan. AKA Thailand gym in Rawai “My work, my focus and The Phuket News wasted no time in demonstrat- he concluded. The Phuket-based fighter for several years. my determination will be ing his ambition by calling for had an impressive start to “I am extremely grateful redoubled because I have huket-based former a debut bow against former ‘14 stoppage wins’ his RIZIN career in 2017 to all the people who have a goal this year or the next RIZIN Fighting Fed- bantamweight gold-holder, Kape’s most recent victory with eye-catching knockouts been and are part of my sports to become world champion Peration bantamweight Cody ‘No Love’ Garbrandt. was a New Year’s Eve knock- against Erson Yamamoto and career, because I would not be again,” he concluded. champion Manel Kape is Of Angolan descent, Kape out on December 31 last year Ian McCall. The following where I am or achieved what I Kape dedicated his most headed to the UFC. becomes the first fighter from as he defeated Japan’s Kai year, in 2018, he then lost have already achieved. A big recent victory against Asakura Kape, who lives in Porto, that country to enter the UFC Asakura to secure the ban- back-to-back fights to Kyoji thank you to all,” he posted to his mother and shared Portugal but regularly bases Octagon since jiu-jitsu world tamweight championship at Horiguchi and Asakura. on his Facebook page. insights into his winning himself and trains at AKA champion Joao Roque’s sole the RIZIN 20 MMA bout at Since then, however, he “The road was long, mentality and mindset via Thailand gym in Rawai, has appearance against Jens Pulver the Saitama Super Arena just has emerged victorious in hard and cruel, but with all his Facebook page. signed a multi-fight deal with at UFC 26 in 2000. outside of Tokyo, Japan. three of his past four bouts persistence dedication and “When it comes to the the UFC after terrific form “We are all so proud of The victory saw Kape on his way to a 15-4 record hard work we all managed search for greatness there is no inside the RIZIN ring in Manel,” commented Mike avenge his 2018 defeat to with 14 stoppage wins. to achieve our goals,” he middle ground. Great achieve- 2019 that saw an impressive Swick, Founder, Co-Owner Asakura and become only continued. ments require great efforts, 3-0 win run. and CEO at AKA Thailand. the second fighter to win the ‘The law of “Just believe even in the and obsessive focus. Hard “It is with great enthu- “He works so hard and RIZIN bantamweight belt. minimum effort’ grey days of our life we will work, sacrifice, resilience, siasm and joy that I am the deserves this. Not only is he He exited the promotion as Nicknamed “Prodígio” (trans- believe. And when they all dedication and most important new athlete of UFC,” Kape one of the hardest workers at champion shortly after. lating to prodigy, wonder or doubt you (as has happened to of all persistence. Practicing announced on his Facebook the gym, but also one of the Kape’s other two victories marvel) 26-year-old Kape was me thousands of times) prove ‘the law of minimum effort’ page. most loyal. That’s hard to find in 2019 saw him overcome born in Angola but moved to them with facts that they were is to give yourself a ticket to Although no details have these days,” Swick added. Seiichiro Ito and Takeya Mi- Portugal when he was four. He wrong and yes they just gave mediocrity.” Phuket Obstacle Trail Run postponed until November TRAIL RUN Tackling tough times. complements our world-renowned It is about enjoying the Great Photo: Laguna Phuket PR Laguna Phuket Marathon and Laguna Outdoors. Phuket Triathlon,” he added. We are encouraging you to regis- LAGUNA PHUKET HAVE CON- Official event organisers, Sports ter with friends as a group or team. firmed that the “Singha Obstacle Trail Republic Thailand, helped explain You can go through the course Run 2020” has been postponed due via their website what exactly Singha helping each other and having fun. to health and safety precautions relat- Obstacle Trail is all about: ing to the coronavirus COVID-19. It is about how much fun you Distances & Categories Originally scheduled for May have crossing the finish line. 8km (Age group Male & Female) 2 at Laguna Phuket, the event has It is about putting a smile on 15km (Age group Male & Female) now been confirmed to take place your face. 24km (Team Open) on Sunday, November 1 at Sugar It is about pushing yourself (and 2km Family & Kids walk run Palm Arena Laguna Phuket. your team/family/group) to discover To discover further details about Dubbed “Keng” (meaning “to Province in September and Chiang ronment throughout the destination how strong you are. the event, and learn more about spe- excel”), the race was originally due to Rai in December. There had been of Laguna Phuket and runners will It is about teamwork, camara- cial offers on accommodation, please be Singha’s very first beach obstacle no announcements on either of these have a unique playground to test their derie and doing something fun to visit the Sports Republic Thailand trail event, marking the beginning of at time of press and they are both limits,” commented Paul Wilson, remember. website: https://sportsrepublicth. Singha Obstacle Trail Series 2020. expected to proceed as planned. SAVP – Group Golf and Destination It is about helping people around com/en/events-calendar/the-singha- The additional events in the “The obstacle race layout will Sales & Marketing, Laguna Phuket. you that need it and pushing yourself obstacle-trail-2020-1/ series are scheduled for Ratchaburi showcase the diverse natural envi- “This exciting new race ideally outside of your com-fort zone. The Phuket News

thephuketnews