‘Tour de Thailand 2007’ starts today!

The ‘Tour de Thailand 2007’, being the 5th year of this international charity bike ride, starts today from Chiang Mai and will end journey to Phuket on 16 December 2007. Tour de Thailand is held to help raising funds for The Max Foundation, a US-registered charity operating worldwide and helping Thai people living with Leukemia and other Blood Related Cancers, and for the Foundation for the Blind in Thailand Under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the Queen. The Tour de Thailand is the signature ride which covers the length of Thailand in 27 days (2300 kilometers/1,437 miles) that include 22 days of riding and 5 strategic days off for sightseeing and relaxation. From the jungle-clad mountains of the north to the tropical islands of the south, the ride highlights the diverse geography, climate and cultures of Thailand. In previous years the Tour de Thailand charity bicycle tour riders raised over 3 million baht for Thai charities, this year Tour de Thailand is shooting for more to help the disadvantaged of Thailand and enjoy the ride of a lifetime. ‘Tour de Thailand 2007’ is anticipating over 400 foreign and local cyclists will participate in a 2300-kilometer journey for a good cause and to experience the country’s beautiful countryside, sights and culture in Thailand. During the 27-day journey, TAT will host special welcome receptions with cultural shows and culinary demonstrations and the joy of Thai life as the route will pass through 26 unique tourist attractions in 16 provinces where 5 provinces have been selected to organize special activities in cooperation with the TAT for the participants in Sukhothai, then Ayuthaya, Kanchanaburi, Prachuab Khiri Khan and finally, on December 16, at the cyclists’ finishing point on Patong Beach, Phuket. Mr. Christopher Byrd, Managing Director of Tour de Asia Bicycle Touring Co., Ltd, the organizer of the annual event, said that when he initiated the Tour de Thailand five years ago, the original idea was to invite international cyclists from around the world to join in a fun ride from Chiang Mai to Phuket to experience the unique beauty of Thailand’s countryside, tourist attractions and culture as well as help the needy along the way. “The Tour de Thailand is such a great way to see the country and meet its people as well as do a good deed at the same time. And, through the overwhelming demand from international cyclists and receipt of local support, we have been able to establish the Tour de Thailand as an annual international charity cycling event,” said Mr. Byrd. “We offer three options for registered riders: Ride the entire tour, all 27 days and 2300 kilometers from Chiang Mai to the tropical paradise of Phuket, or join us for half of the tour (two weeks); ride the northern half from Chiang Mai to historic Kanchanaburi or the southern half from Kanchanaburi to Phuket.” Non-registered riders (locals) can also join on a daily basis at any point along our 27 day journey. Interested cyclists may opt to ride the whole route or just selected segments. Local participation is encouraged, especially during the three official local riding events as follows: - Sunday, December 2nd – Local Day Ride from Kanchanaburi to Wat Phra Sing and then back to Kanchanaburi (90 KM/56 Miles) Just riding with us will help to raise money and awareness for Thai charities this year and into the future. Riders from the Northern Half will be saying goodbye and we will be welcoming riders who are joining us for the Southern Half of the Tour de Thailand 2007. There will be a light and sound show at the famous "Bridge over the River Kwai" on this evening along with a huge market of food and crafts to enjoy. - Sunday, December 16th – Ride from Khao Lak to Phuket (74 Miles/118 KM) Tour de Thailand 2007 Closing Ceremony – Celebrate Life! Phuket riders will come out to the Sarasin Bridge and ride with us through Phuket to Patong Beach. The meeting point is scheduled to be between 12:00 Noon and 1:00 PM at the roadside Thai restaurant just inside Phuket from the Sarasin Bridge and under the giant “Welcome to Phuket” sign. There is no registration fee for local day riders. All participants will receive one Tour de Thailand Water Bottle, Bottled Water, Tour de Thailand Arm Sleeves, and can join the ride on a daily basis. Information and registration can be obtained from 081 173 4469, 089 815 3169 or visit www.tourdethailand.com About Tour de Thailand Tour de Thailand is an annual charity bicycle ride organized by the Tour de Asia Bicycle Touring Co., Ltd. The mission of Tour de Thailand is to raise as much money for charity as possible, to promote bicycle touring in Thailand and South East Asia and to provide participants with an unforgettable adventure while helping others. More information about Tour de Thailand can be found online at www.tourdethailand.com All accommodations and most meals are included. The Tour also provides support vehicles to handle emergencies, assist with bike repairs or to help a rider whose legs need a rest. In return, the cyclists need to raise a minimum of $2,000 U.S. in donations for the full ride, or $1,000 U.S. in donations for those riding half the ride. For more information, please contact: Tom Van Blarcom / Ruthaiwan Tanwongwan Total Quality PR (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Tel: 0-2260-5820, 086 633 8171 Fax: 0-2260-5847-8 Email: [email protected] Click for photo release at www.thaipr.net

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