The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is sponsoring the 12^th annual international Laguna Phuket Triathlon in 2005 making it the tenth consecutive year in which TAT has extended support to the event which has consistently drawn over 450 competitors from over 30 countries. This year, a total of 450 participants and 45 team relay members from more than 32 countries are expected.

The 12^th anniversary of the Laguna Phuket Triathlon, which will be held on November 2005 on the tropical paradise of Phuket island in Southern Thailand, is set to see another showdown between some of the world's top female pros.

Commonwealth Games gold medallist and 2002 Laguna Phuket Triathlon champion, Canadian Carol Montgomery will be back to defend her title against a strong contingent made up of Australians Joanne King and Belinda Granger.

Joanne King is no newcomer to this event as she has twice stood on top of the winners’ podium in 2000 and 2001. Belinda Granger, Ironman Korea champion for the last 3 years, will also be back trying to improve on her second and third place finishes in 2001 and 2002 respectively.

The expected race field is approximately 500, not including the 3-person relay teams. There will also be a 5-km and 10-km fun run, a triathlon clinic hosted by multi-Ironman World Champion Scott Molina and a triathlon golf tournament at the Laguna Phuket Golf Club.

Participating fees:
1,800 Baht for Thai Nationals, $120USD for Non-Thais
Team Relay: 8,000 Baht for teams with at least 1 Thai National, $320USD for Non-Thai teams.

Contact information
Michelle Payette - Events and Press Relations Manager
Laguna Resorts and Hotels Public Co., Ltd.
Tel: +66 (0) 7632 4416 ext 106
Web site: www.lagunaphukettriathlon.com

TAT Southern Region Office - Region 4 (Phuket)
Tel:+66 (0) 7621 1036, (0) 7621 2213
Fax: +66 (0) 7621 3582
E-mail: tatphket@tat.or.th