More than 4,000 runners came together at Koh Pich on Wednesday evening for RUN FOR OUR HEROES, a 3-kilometre charity run held in solidarity with Cambodian frontliners and displaced civilians affected by the ongoing border situation. The event was supported by UYFC (Union Youth Federations of Cambodia) and The Many Foundation, as well as OCIC, and was co-organised by 16 running clubs, drawing the wider Phnom Penh community together for the cause.
The run successfully raised over $16,000, which will be donated directly through UYFC to support frontline personnel, internally displaced families and communities, reinforcing the event’s humanitarian purpose.
The route took place entirely within Koh Pich, starting and finishing at Elysee Tower, bringing together runners, volunteers and community members for a peaceful evening of collective action.
"This event was a chance for our community to show that we are united, that we are standing with those facing hardship.” Said Rohit Ouk, veteran national runner and member of the elite runners, who returned following the withdrawal of all Cambodian athletes from the 2025 SEA Games.
“Beyond the symbolic act of running together, every step contributes to a larger purpose: to support displaced families, helping them meet basic needs and feel the strength of our collective solidarity," he said.
The run took place at a time when humanitarian needs are increasing across the country. According to the Ministry of Interior, more than 470,000 people have been displaced across seven provinces. In recent weeks, Koh Pich has also served as a focal point for community solidarity, hosting multiple donation sites and charity initiatives as needs continue to rise nationwide.
To ensure participant wellbeing, Intercare Hospital and Khmer Medical Hospital mobilised ambulances, doctors and nurses on-site, helping maintain health and safety as runners took to the route during the evening hours.
“This was not just a run. It was a peaceful gathering to call for unity and to express hope for peace, while standing alongside displaced civilians through collective action,” said Sreyleap Sorn, Night Runners representative.
The run was co-organized by running clubs including Night Runners, Castor, Cambodia RUTT, Kak Runners, Khmer Run, Meow Run, Wynnie, Susu, Run.Na K Ban, Neak Runners, Samanh, Zero Runners, Sabay Running, Garmin Running, Run with Sal, and Hanuman Run.
RUN FOR OUR HEROES highlighted the strength of community-led initiatives — demonstrating how sport, solidarity and civic responsibility can come together to support those most affected during a challenging period for the nation.
