AIMS Children’s Series 2025: Thung Song, Thailand

With over 800 children taking part the day was filled with joy, energy and unforgettable moments that showcased how running can build not only health and happiness but also teamwork and inclusion.

At the heart of the event was the AIMS Children’s Relay – a fast and fun 5×1km race. Each team was made up of five members, with at least one female runner required to ensure gender balance and inclusivity. The format encouraged kids to train together, run together and cheer each other on. For many this was their first experience of racing as part of a team and the sense of unity was clear to see as children sprinted hand-in-hand towards the exchange zones.

One of the most touching categories introduced in Thung Song was Run with Mom. Here, mothers and children ran side-by-side, hand-in-hand and crossed the finish line together. The sight of families smiling, laughing and pushing each other forward symbolized what running can mean at its most basic level: connection. Many mothers said it was the first time they had run with their children and the experience strengthened their bond in a way no ordinary day could.

Inclusivity was a cornerstone of the Thung Song event. More than 30 children in wheelchairs participated, supported by their families and volunteers. The atmosphere was electric as the community rallied around these runners, showing that the finish line belongs to everyone.

The most emotional moment came when one girl, who had never walked unaided in public, took her first independent steps in the last 20 metres of the race. Her mother, overwhelmed with joy, said: “I never imagined this day would come. To see her walk on her own, in front of everyone, is a miracle.”

It was a reminder that the AIMS Children’s Series is about more than competition—it’s about life, dignity and hope.

The whole town embraced the event. Streets filled with music, cheering crowds and colourful shirts as waves of children ran through Thung Song. Local schools, families and community groups all joined in, creating an atmosphere more like a festival than a race. The finish line became a place of laughter, tears and endless photographs.

The success of AIMS Children’s Series Thung Song is only the beginning. Plans are already in place to expand the initiative nationwide under the title AIMS Children’s Relay: Thailand. With its combination of relay teamwork, family categories and inclusive participation, the model is set to inspire thousands more children across the country.

As the sun set over Thung Song that day, it was clear that this was more than a race. It was a celebration of life, of community and of the next generation of runners who will carry the spirit of AIMS forward.

“Running is often seen as an individual sport, but this AIMS Children’s Series showed that running can be true teamwork.”