Young Sons, in collaboration with One Bangkok, is set to create a new phenomenon with the launch of the “Sanrio Characters Half Marathon,” Southeast Asia’s first-ever Sanrio-themed half marathon, taking place on Sunday, 27 September 2026. To welcome both local and international runners to experience a new level of running entertainment under the concept of “Sportainment” at One Bangkok, a global lifestyle destination in the heart of Bangkok.

What makes this event especially unique is the reimagination of six globally beloved Sanrio characters into dedicated running squads, allowing participants to choose the character that best represents their personality and running spirit. Hello Kitty is suited for those who are bright, confident, and full of positive energy. My Melody represents warmth, kindness, and the joy of sharing happiness with others. Kuromi is made for playful and bold personalities with strong individuality. Kerokerokeroppi captures the adventurous and energetic spirit of fun-loving runners. Cinnamoroll reflects softness, comfort, and dreamlike charm. While Bad Badtz-Maru is for those who are cool, witty, and unafraid to stand out. Each team’s race kit will be uniquely designed around the identity of its character, creating an elevated race experience specially crafted for runners and Sanrio fans alike.

Another major highlight of the event is its inclusive race format, designed for runners of all ages and families to enjoy together. Casual runners can take part in the Fun Race categories including 1.7K, 3.5K, 7K, and 10K, while experienced runners can challenge themselves with the 21K Half Marathon. Most notably, the event will officially introduce Thailand’s first-ever “17K City Run” — a completely new race distance created for runners preparing for the Half Marathon while also offering an exciting challenge of its own. The organizers believe the format will fill an important gap in Thailand’s running market and establish itself as a signature annual race attracting participants from both Thailand and overseas.

Mr. Keerati Supadirekkul, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Young Sons stated: “This project represents a new form of running experience where sports, entertainment, lifestyle, and global IP are seamlessly brought together. The race route has been carefully designed as a true City Run through Bangkok’s modern business district before crossing the Chao Phraya River to reveal the charm of the riverside communities and the authentic lifestyle of Thonburi — the cultural roots of Bangkok itself.

We want runners to experience two distinct dimensions of Bangkok within one unforgettable route, especially through the new 17K format which we believe will become one of the city’s most memorable running experiences.”

As a key partner supporting the first-ever Sanrio Characters Half Marathon in Southeast Asia, Mr. Worawat Srisa-an, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of One Bangkok, stated: “At One Bangkok, creating a great city is more than developing physical spaces; it is about fostering an environment where people can enjoy a high quality of life, connect with one another, and engage with the city in new and meaningful ways. This event demonstrates how the power of sports, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences are able to bring people from diverse backgrounds together within a shared space.  "We are delighted to be part of this landmark Sportainment experience, bringing people together and contributing to a more vibrant and livable Bangkok."

One Bangkok Park will transform into a full-scale post-run lifestyle experience featuring recovery activities such as Ice Bath zones, family and kids’ areas, and a wide variety of entertainment and lifestyle activities for runners to enjoy throughout the day. Exclusively for this event, larger-than-life Sanrio character inflatables will be specially brought to Bangkok, allowing fans to capture memorable moments alongside their beloved favorite character. In addition, the venue is prepared to accommodate participants with over 6,000 parking spaces and comprehensive event facilities.

Beyond entertainment and racing, the event also aims to create meaningful social impact under the concept: “Every kilometre you run creates more than just memories — it creates impact.” For every kilometre completed by participants, 1 Baht will be contributed through the Princess Srisavangavadhana Foundation under the Royal Patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Krom Phra Srisavangavadhana, supporting education, medical research, and public-benefit initiatives.

At the same time, runners nationwide will also be invited to join the movement through the “Sanrio Characters Half Marathon Virtual Run.” Participants can choose a starting distance from 3.5K with their favorite character medal for only 790 THB, or register for the 21K package to receive the complete collection of all six character medals together with an exclusive limited-edition design collection shirt priced at 4,190 THB. Together, Young Sons and One Bangkok envision “Sanrio Characters Half Marathon” as more than just a race, but as an important step in positioning Thailand as the next leading Sportainment Destination.

Official ticket sales and merchandise will launch on Thursday, 9 July 2026 at 10.00 hrs. via WWW.YOUNGSONS.COM and official ticketing partner ThaiRun. Tickets will start from 1,690 THB, while the 17K distance will be priced at 1,790 THB and the 21K Half Marathon at 1,890 THB. Participants interested in the Limited Edition “Champion Package” priced at 2,950 THB will also receive an exclusive Sanrio Half Marathon Bomber Jacket valued at 1,980 THB. All registrations will include unlimited complimentary race photo downloads and accident insurance coverage throughout the event. One Bangkok member will also receive access to special ticket privileges under terms and conditions specified by the organizers.