The National Olympic Committee of Cambodia will host the Kingdom’s full-distance marathon and half marathon around the Angkor temple complex in Siem Reap on August 17, following a deal struck with the Royal government to help address a recent slump in visitors to the historic site.

Tourism Minister and NOCC president Thong Khon told the Post: “Sport and tourism contribute to each other. In order to respond to the need of foreign runners, we would like to launch a full marathon of 42.195km. Also, amateur races including a half marathon [22km], 10km and 3km events will be held for entertainment and to promote good health."

About 400 participants from 24 nations have already registered online and main sponsors have been confirmed as Pepsi, Angkor Beer and Smart mobile, according to Vath Chamroeun, the vice general secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and the general secretary of the NOCC.