A record over 3,000 runners from more than 50 countries and regions streamed through the historic town of Luang Prabang in northern Laos on Saturday in a charity run for children’s medical care.

Organized in collaboration with China Daily and the RVi Group, the Run for Children Luang Prabang Half Marathon 2026 saw the biggest and most successful edition in its 12-year history.

The race began at the ancient city’s Royal Palace Museum in the early hours of Saturday, passing through temples, Wat Xieng Thong and Wat Manorom, along the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, enabling the participants to experience the charm of Luang Prabang’s mixed cultural and natural heritage.

Up to 3,121 participants fanned out across three categories, with 304 taking the 21-kilometer route, 647 setting off on the 14-km course, and more than 2,100 joining the seven-km fun run.

IN PICTURES: A run for children

Proceeds from the event go to the Lao Friends Hospital for Children which opened in 2015, providing free pediatric medical care for children from across northern Laos.

Consul General Zhang Sheping of the Chinese Consulate General in Luang Prabang, who also participated in the marathon, said he felt the passion and energy along the route. “People from different places and different backgrounds gathered here, encouraging each other and enjoying the race.”

He noted that this year also marks the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and the People’s Republic of China, lending even greater meaning to the event. “It’s not only about crossing the finishing line, but about giving energy to the children. And,  I think we also run for friendship, peace and the world.”

Another participant – Bounleua Sinxayvoravong, chairman of the Luang Prabang Provincial Administration Committee – said he was delighted to see so many participants from around the world and Laos.

Beyond raising funds for children, he said the race is a powerful showcase for Luang Prabang. With runners streaming through the ancient town’s heritage streets, he noted that many had paused to take selfies and videos and later shared them on social media – a ripple of images and stories that can spread the town’s charm far beyond its borders.

Pierre Boismard, development director of the Lao Friends Hospital for Children, said the event’s last edition had raised more than $30,000, and the hospital had treated about 50,000 children in the past year.

Some hospital staff pushed child patients in wheelchairs and took part in the event. Boismard said the hospital hopes not only to provide physical treatment, but also bring joy to the children by involving them in such activities.

“For example, inside the hospital, we also have people playing games with the children. I think it’s not only about the physical -- their brain needs to be good to be better in the future.”

Olivia Schkotulainsky and Jan Tegtmeyer – a couple from Germany – arrived in Laos two days ago for a month-long journey through the country. For them, joining the race was never part of the plan before they passed through a registration booth on Friday.

What motivated the couple, who happen to be regular runners, was the spirit behind the event. “We’re here because we like running and we want to help the children here,” said Tegtmeyer.

Being in Laos for the first time, the pair said they felt the warmth and energy of the crowds, especially when they heard them shout cheers of encouragement in local languages during the race. What touched Tegtmeyer most was the sight of children lining the streets, cheering them on.

Hangmany Chanthavong, from Laos’ capital Vientiane, who joined the race for the first time, said she was satisfied with completing the seven-km run. “I think they organized it very well, and the route was excellent.”

Noting that the event has been held in Laos for many years, she said it’s highly meaningful. Beyond the race itself, participants also contribute through social donations, as the charitable funds raised ultimately go to the children’s hospital, she added.

Contact the writer at stacyshi@chinadailyhk.com