Trail Race Organizers Defend Response Timeline After Runner's Death
A runner collapsed and died during the SAKAD Scenic Trail race in southern Thailand; organizers released a detailed rescue timeline showing emergency responders arrived within minutes but were hampered by heavy rain and difficult terrain.
A runner died during the SAKAD Scenic Trail event, and social media users subsequently questioned the delay in rescue operations. SAKAD Scenic Trail responded by posting a detailed timeline and statement of condolences, saying: "We have listened to feedback from all parties and we are deeply saddened by the loss of this athlete. No one on our event team wanted this to happen. Out of respect, we ask that images of the deceased not be shared, as this causes further grief to the family."
The organizers outlined their rescue timeline as follows: At 6:36 AM, event staff at the 2.5 km mark received a phone call reporting an athlete had collapsed and lost consciousness (call duration: 33 seconds). At 6:39 AM, the same person notified via Line. At 6:40 AM, the motorlance A2 team and rescue team were dispatched to the area, and rescue coordination began with AED equipment and an athlete transport vehicle from headquarters. At 6:50 AM, the first rescue team reported that motorcycles could not reach the location due to heavy rain, which hampered athlete transport and left no sheltered area for AED use. At 6:54 AM, the motorlance A2 team and first rescue team reached and assisted the athlete (Line notification lasted 19 seconds confirming staff arrival). At 7:00 AM, a second rescue team with a transport vehicle arrived and provided assistance. At 7:05 AM, the second rescue team contacted the hospital for transfer. At 7:09 AM, the second rescue team transported the athlete to Puea Hospital, arriving at 7:40 AM.
The team later posted a tribute to Thanawat Sirikul, expressing deep condolences to his family, relatives, and fellow runners: "We offer our sincerest sympathy for the loss of this beloved runner. May his spirit find peace. May his final journey be filled with tranquility on an endless path. Running is a journey, and the finish line is measured not by distance but by the value of every step taken. We honor this runner who never gave up. Thank you for sharing sweat and smiles on this path with us. We believe those moments were the best of all. With love and remembrance."
The team stated that upon learning of the incident, they activated their emergency response plan and coordinated with rescue teams, emergency medical teams, and road rescue personnel who all rushed to the scene, but were ultimately unable to save their fellow runner.
