Date       5 Nov 2007
    The athlete could register at the starting point, at 4.30-5.30 hrs. Starting time is at 6.00 hrs.
  Place     At the viewpoint area, in front of the Health Office, Amphoe Khao Koh, Phetchabun

The Khoa Koh Tourism Business Association, in conjunction with the 1^st Cavalry Division, the Phetchabun Military Camp, Phetchabun Provincial Administration, Khao Koh District Office, Khao Koh Hospital and Khao Koh
Health Office has organized the 3^rd Khao Koh Mini-Half marathon on Sunday, 5 November 2006 at 6.00 hrs. Start at the viewpoint area, in front of the Health Office, Amphoe Khao Koh, Phetchabun. With the aims to encourage people to exercise, renovate the area around Khoa Koh Royal residence by an income of this event as well as opening the Khoa Koh Tourism Season.

The race is divided into 3 categories:
- Half –Marathon, 21 km. Admission fee is 400 Thai baht, win the cash prize 5,000 Thai baht and trophy. Start at 6.00 hrs.
- Mini–Marathon, 10 km. Admission fee is 200 Thai baht, win the cash prize 2,500 Thai baht and trophy. Start at 6.15 hrs.
- Fun-Run, 3 km. Admission fee is 100 Thai baht, win the trophy. Start at 6.30 hrs. (No admission fee for student)

The participant will receive T-shirt, certificate, souvenir medal. The snack and water are available at finish point. (Drinking water is available every 2 km.)

In this regard, baggage leaving point, accommodation, restroom and shower are free of charge.

The race starts at the viewpoint area, in front of the Khao Koh Health Office, for the Half-Marathon (21 km) run to Ruenrudee Intersection, turn right and u-turn at the intersection to Khao Koh Royal Residence, run to Ban Kong Neam route, pass the monument and reach to the finish line. For the Mini-Marathon (10 km) run to Ban Kong Neam route, u-turn at Ban Dok Champee Village and reach to the finish line, for the Fun-Run (3 km) run to Ban Kong Neam route, and u-turn at Ban Simarak then reach to the finish line.

TAT Northern Office: Region 3 would like to invite you to participate in the Khao Koh Mini-Half Marathon and also enjoy the Loi Krathong Festival on 5 November, 2006 at 6.00 hrs.

 Contact

The Public Relations Section, Khao Koh Hospital
Tel. 0 5672 8075 7 ext 102 Fax. 0 5672 8059 or visit www.khaokhohospital.com
(Registration at the event on 5 November, 2006
during 4.30-5.30 hrs. is acceptance.)
TAT Northern Office: Region 3
Tel. 0 5525 2742-3 (Business hour: 8.30-16.30 hrs.)
website http://www.tat.or.th/

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Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) cooperated with Bangchak Petroleum Public Co. Ltd, Ford Sales & Service (Thailand) Co. Ltd., tourism associations and more than 700 travel operators over the country launched the “Amazing Coupon: cash coupon...nationwide discount” to activating domestic tourism during this green season under the big domestic campaign “Enjoy traveling Thailand…gather happiness to your life”
The campaign provided amazing average 50% discount at diversified facilities. The coupon will be used as cash when buying products or services at nationwide participating hotels, resorts, restaurants, attractions, spas, golf courses, tour agencies, vehicle rentals, OTOP shops, malls, etc. Don’t miss!! Getting the coupon book totally worth 50,000 Baht with the guidebook; free at TAT Headquarter and TAT region offices or spend 500 Baht at Ford showrooms nationwide or fill Gassohol 800 Baht at Bangchak stations, from now until 31st October 2007.
Furthermore, you could have a chance to win an amazing prize, “Ford Everest” car worth 990,000 Baht or other 217 prizes with totally worth 2 millions Baht, only fill out your details at the back of a coupon with the operator stamp and put it in the Amazing Coupon Box at TAT offices and all participants within 31st October 2007. Lucky draw will be held on 20th November 2007 and all prize winners will be announced on 27th November 2007 in Matichon newspaper
For more information, please call TAT Call Center 1672

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November 21 - 25, 2007: At the Sukhothai Historical Park and Sukhothai Central Hall, Sukhothai Province

As the full moon of the twelfth lunar month (usually in mid-November) lights up the night sky, throughout the Thai kingdom, hundreds of thousands of ornately-decorated krathong or traditional banana leaf floats are set adrift in rivers and waterways in a spell-binding ritual called Loi Krathong - the 'festival of lights'. This is one of the Kingdom's oldest and best-preserved traditions.
The Loi Krathong tradition we know of today has evolved from the royal rituals of the early Rattanakosin period in which several types of lanterns were set afloat in the Chao Phraya River and its waterways. The practice was subsequently adopted and adapted by common folk.Krathong floats are made from basic materials easily found around the village and reflect the simplicity of life beyond the palace walls. They typically take the shape of lotus in full bloom, swans, chedis (stupas), and Mount Meru from Buddhist mythology. However krathong floats in the shape of lotus blossoms are most popular.The sight of thousands of tiny candlelit floats drifting downstream is nowhere more spectacular than in Sukhothai, the first Thai capital, where this annual tradition originated. Watch dazzling firework displays, cultural performances, folk dances and a dramatic light and sound presentation.

Contact information: TAT Northern Office - Region 3 Areas of responsibility: Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Sukhothai and UttaraditTel: +66 (0) 5525 2742-3, (0) 5525 9907Fax: +66 (0) 5523 1063 E-mail: tatphlok@tat.or.th

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date 26 - 27 Oct 2007 (annual)
Province: Nong Khai

Every year the Mekong River in the Nong Khai region of northern Thailand is home to a strange, beautiful and baffling phenomenon; the Naga Fireballs. On the first full moon night of October, which coincides with the end of the Buddhist Rains Retreat, hundreds of red, pink and orange fireballs rise out of the river, only to disappear into thin air without a trace.
These occurrences are now the centrepiece of a two-day celebration that incorporates many elements or other traditional Thai festivals: light and sound shows, an illuminated boat contest, the King's Cup long-tailed boat race and food offerings. While these all serve to add colour and spectacle to the event, they can't detract from the real star of the show and the spiritual impact the fireballs have.

The unexplained nature of the event and its coincidence with such a religious day has led local residents to believe the fire comes from the mythical Naga (a serpent), produced as a gesture of homage to the Lord Buddha. Scientists, however, have other ideas.While still to have proved the theory conclusively, they hold that the fireballs are the bizarre result of a series of perfectly natural occurrences. At this time of year there is an abundance of plant and animal life decomposing at the bottom of the river.

These begin to emit flammable natural gases as the sun beats down on the river. These gases are only released by the gravitational pull of the moon - at its strongest when the moon is full.

More Information please visit to http://travelguides.lastminute.ie/sisp/index.htm?fx=event.detail&event_id=95377

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Date 20 Oct 2007 - 26 Oct 2007 Location At Wat Phra That Choeng Chum Temple, Sakon Nakhon Detail

To mark the end of Buddhist Lent or ‘Ok Pansa’, communities in Northeastern Thailand or ‘I-San’ stage an annual celebration consisting of a grand procession of meticulously-carved wax castles, long-boat races and festive celebrations. On the final day of the festival, which falls on the end of the Buddhist Lent, local residents make a trip to the temples to make merit. This ancient folk tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. Over the centuries, the tradition has evolved. Originally, ornate wax trees carved out of poles of beeswax were presented to temples along with other merit-making ritual offerings. Contemporary offerings consist of elaborate designs and sophisticated shapes and forms. Beeswax is molded into miniature Buddhist temples and shrines or wax castles. The significance of the merit-making ritual is based on the Buddhist concept of reincarnation - the belief that upon death, an individual passes on to another life. According to Buddhist teachings, it is believed that a person's destiny is determined by meritorious acts or good deeds performed in the present life. If individuals conscientiously observe and practice Buddhist principles by performing good deeds and by engaging in acts of Buddhist devotion, individuals earn and accumulate merit during their lifetime. Depending on the merit they have earned, in subsequent lives, individuals progress to the point where they attain spiritual enlightenment and reside in the upper tiers of heaven, or are re-born into a life that is worse than the last. The practice also constitutes a form of ancestor worship. The wax castle itself is symbolises the ideal spiritual residence devout Buddhists aspire to in their future life.

Based on this belief, making merit by presenting offerings to monks evolved as a Buddhist ritual known as "tak baht". The "baht" being the bowl in which the alms and offerings presented to the monks are placed. It is also believed that one earns more merit by taking part in communal merit-making. There is strength in numbers, especially when individuals blessed with merit come together and collectively join in the pursuit of good deeds. The annual wax castle procession is a special time for family reunions with relatives reunited in merit-making activities, sharing in goodwill as well as good times. Community resources are pooled and monks and community members join hands to craft these ornate wax castles as merit-making offerings and to stage a grand ceremony and festive celebrations – a notable expression of Buddhist devotion and one which strengthens the bond between the village temple and the community it serves. These crafted models can be seen especially in Sakon Nakhon where an annual festival is held with a grand wax castle procession, competitive long-boat races as well as traditional northeastern cultural performances among many other festivities. The Significance of ‘Ok Pansa’, the End of the Buddhist Lent During his final incarnation and his seventh lent, in remembrance of his mother, Lord Buddha ascended to the heavens to deliver a sermon to his mother. There he resided throughout the entire period of the three-months Rains Retreat or the Buddhist Lent.

At the end of the Rains Retreat which falls on the first day of the waning moon of the eleventh lunar month, Lord Buddha returned to earth after teaching his mother in Thavatimsa heaven, descending by the Celestial Stairway comprising of the Silver, Gold and Crystal stairs.Delighted by the news of Buddha's return to earth once again, Buddha's disciples and followers prepared to receive him with offerings of food and other sacred items being presented. ‘Tak Baht Devo’, the Buddhist merit-making ritual performed on the final day of the festival signals the end of the Buddhist Lent, originates from the word "Devorohana" and refers to Buddhist celebrations marking the special occasion of the return of the Lord Buddha to earth, as mentioned in ancient Buddhist tales.

Contact

TAT Northeastern Office - Region 4 Tel: +66 (0) 4251 3490-1 Fax: +66 (0) 4251 3492 E-mail address: tatphnom@tat.or.th MORE information please visit to http://www.tat.or.th/

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date : October 10 - 19, 2007: Phuket

The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is an annual event held during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar. It is believed that the vegetarian festival and its accompanying sacred rituals bestow good fortune upon those who religiously observe this rite.

During this time, local residents of Chinese ancestry strictly observe a 10-day vegetarian or vegan diet for the purposes of spiritual cleansing and merit-making. Sacred rituals are performed at various Chinese shrines and temples and aesthetic displays such as walking barefooted over hot coals and ascending ladders with bladed rungs are performed by entranced devotees known as "Ma Song".
Websit : www.phuketvegetarian.com

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Date : 07/11/2007 To 11/11/2007
Place : Muang Thong Thani
November 7-9, 2007 ,Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok

A record number of international exhibitors and key buyers are expected to attend “Thailand Health & Beauty Show 2007”, one of the most exciting international events on the calendar to be organized by the Department of Export Promotion (DEP), Ministry of Commerce.

The world-class fair, to be held at IMPACT, Muang Thong Thani, from November 7-11, 2007, is the perfect showcase for health and beauty products, as well as natural materials, spa merchandise and a diverse range of related services provided by world-class hospitals and specialist clinics. As in previous years, Thailand HBS 2007 will bring together buyers and sellers, as well as health and beauty professionals, from around the world – thus creating the perfect arena to complete business deals, hold trade negotiations with interested parties and, just as importantly, expand each exhibitor’s client base.

The DEP’s Director-General Mr. Rachane Potjanasuntorn revealed : “The DEP is confident that Thailand HBS 2007 will again attract  quality exhibitors and a long list of keen buyers from the United States, Spain, Italy, Germany, Egypt, Iran, Turkey, China, Japan, Indonesia and Korea, to name just a few. We firmly believe that the fair will further strengthen the Kingdom’s reputation as the regional hub for international trade and trade discussions, allowing both local and international companies to eventually form a global network of crucial contacts.”

Based on last year’s show figures, international exhibitors will literally have a captive consumer audience, as this year more than 25,000 visitors will spend at least one entire day at the event. Another favorable factor is that recent consumer trends point to a continuous rise in products and services that promote wellness, beauty and inner health. Also gaining fast in popularity are herbal products, and natural health foods and food supplements. Meanwhile, the health and beauty industry has been linked increasingly to the travel industry, each supporting and contributing to the other’s growth.

On display at Thailand HBS 2007 will be a definitive range of the most popular health and beauty products, aromatherapy merchandise, health and herbal food and beverages, beauty therapy and medical equipment, as well as services offered by some of the world’s leading hospitals, specialist clinics and beauty training institutes. Several Thai manufacturers already have carved an enviable name for themselves on the regional and international spa scene, offering top-of-the-range spa products at highly competitive prices. And all trade visitors will soon realize that it is not by chance that Thailand – with its vast natural resources and ancient healing practices – is already known as the “Spa Capital of Asia”.

Thailand HBS 2007 will cover a total space of 20,000 square meters, accommodating approximately 850 exhibition booths. It will be open to trade visitors daily from 10.00 a.m.- 6.00 p.m., on November 7-9, 2007, and to the general public from 10.00 a.m.-9.00 p.m. on November 10-11, 2007.

For further information, visit www.depthai.go.th and www.thaitradefair.com.

Issued on behalf of the Department of Export Promotion, Ministry of Commerce, by Syllable Co., Ltd.
For more information, please contact Mr. Somkid Charoensak at 0 2254 6895-7 or 08 4147 7575, fax 0 2650 7738
information form http://www.tourismthailand.org

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At First Hotel your well-being is our greatest concern. We want you to know we care enough to take away the rough edges of travelling in a foreign land. Let us extend to you our famed Thai hospitality. So that when you do visit Thailand again we won't be surprised if you think of us, First. 
Location
Whether you are travelling for business or pleasure all of Bangkok is at your threshold once you step into first Hotel.Situated in the city centre, we are on of Bangkok's best located hotels, within walking distance from its burgeoning business district, scenic cultural attractions, wonderful shopping and glittering nightlife.All this convenient proximity yet just out of the reach of inner city noise and crowds. 
Accommodation
 As travellers will like first Hotel for what we are warm and friendly - and what we are not - big and impersonal. Because we are medium size we can give each guest the personal attention he seeks to make his stay an enjoyable one. We have tailored every room luxuriuosly yet tastefully. There is a remote-control colou TV, in-house video movies, satellite TV, and an international direct-dial telephone. A choice-stock minibar and refrigerator in your room also allows you to enjoy your favourite drinks.
Facilities  
At First Hotel we give our guests a speedy check-in. And while we do that we hope you'll enjoy the lobby, a charming blend of teak-panel and stained glass ceiling, art nouveau and lush greenery.
As a natural host, we have full banquet facilities for 30 to 300 people, making us ideal for seminars, convention and parties. Of course, all that comes with our maticulous catering service. 
Dining
Come dine and discover the delights of our food and beverage outlets, Rendezvous Café, our 24-hours side-walk coffee house which serves a variety of local and international cuisine. Enjoy your dinner there with live music in the evening. And, at the lobby bar - wind down with your favourite cocktail.

First Hotel Bangkok
2, Soi Somprasong 1, Petchaburi Road, Tanonprayathai,Rachthevee, Bangkok 10400 Thailand.
Tel : (66 2) 255-0100-20 , Fax : (66 2) 255-0121
Web addres : www.firsthotelbangkok.com
E-mail : firsthotel@loxinfo.co.th

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A modern first-class hotel, located close to the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre and Bangkok's main commercial and shopping district of Sukhumvit Road, the Amari Atrium Hotel is ideally placed for both business and leisure travellers to Bangkok. With large, comfortable rooms, a business centre, a fitness centre and an outdoor pool with sundeck and jacuzzi, this city-centre property offers both an excellent service and great value-for-money.
L o c a t i o n
The Amari Atrium Hotel is located minutes away from the busy commercial and shopping district of Sukhumvit Road. 
A c c o m m o d a t i o n
The Amari Atrium Hotel offers a variety of stylish and comfortable room categories to suit your needs and ensure a pleasant stay in Bangkok, one of Asia's most exciting cities.
521 Superior rooms
29 Executive rooms
17 Deluxe rooms Suites 
F a c i l i t i e s  
The Amari Atrium Hotel offers the following services and facilities: 24 hour business centre with Internet and e-mail services Shuttle Bus to Bangkok shopping and sightseeing destinations Laundry and dry cleaning service Medical service (on call) Baby sitting Concierge Parking Money Exchange Beauty Salon Shopping Arcade Tour Agency 
D i n i n g
The Cascade Coffee Shop serves lavish buffets and an international à la carte menu while the Cascade Lobby Bar is perfect for drinks or light refreshments at any time of day. Vivaldi Italian Restaurant serves fine Italian cuisine ranging from tasty pizzas to gourmet pastas. For a fun night out, drop by Mingles Pub and Restaurant. 
R e c r e a t i o n
The Amari Atrium Hotel offers local and multi-language satellite T.V. as well as pay-view movies. There is also a sundeck and outdoor pool with a jacuzzi which looks out over the Bangkok skyline.
Amari Atrium Hotel
1880 New Petchburi Rd. Bangkok 10320
more information please visit http://www.amari.com/atrium/

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THE KING OF THAILAND IN WORLD FOCUS
Compiled by the Foreign Correspondents' Club of Thailand (FCCT)
The King of Thailand in World Focus
The world's longest-reigning monarch seen through the eyes of foreign journalists and photographers. A unique royal history spanning nearly eight decades of turmoil and triumph.
The new edition of The King of Thailand in World Focus — is now available from the Foreign Correspondents' Club of Thailand (FCCT) office.
King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Rama IX: Great Strength of the Land, ninth king in the Chakri Dynasty, Father of the Nation, peacemaker, Thailand's longest reigning monarch, the world's longest reigning living monarch. Jazz composer, saxophonist, artist, inventor, patent holder, sailor, philanthropist, animal lover, expert in agriculture and irrigation.
Born in Boston and educated in Europe, this is an account of a teenager who ascended the throne in the shadow of tragedy to be confronted by turbulence at home and revolution in neighbouring Indochina. For nearly half a century, King Bhumibol has remained inside Thailand, dedicating himself to the country's poor, and wielding moral authority according to his personal philosophy: Give more, take less.
This book documents a remarkable life through foreign newspaper, magazine and wire service reports as compiled by the FCCT. The original version of The King of Thailand in World Focus was undertaken in 1987 to coincide with King Bhumibol's 60th birthday. It has long been out of print, but remains one of the most insightful and readable works on Thailand's widely revered monarch.
In June 2006, nationwide celebrations marked the 60th anniversary of King Bhumibol's accession to the throne, and 5 December 2007 is his 80th birthday. At a much more modest level, the FCCT passed the 50-year mark in 2006. One of the activities undertaken to mark these anniversaries was updating the 1987 royal book.
This new edition of The King of Thailand in World Focus has been expanded, and completely redesigned and reformatted. It includes foreign coverage of the intervening years during which King Bhumibol became the world's longest reigning living monarch. The period has not been plain sailing by any means. The dramatic royal intervention in May 1992 to end political chaos and bloodshed is still dramatically etched on the world's collective imagination. The tense political standoff of 2006, when Thai politicians once again grappled with the fine print of constitutional democracy, ended in September with a bloodless military putsch.
Sixty per cent of the proceeds from the sale of this book will go to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej's charities, the remainder to the FCCT's educational funds.
The FCCT member price is 1,200 baht (limit 3 copies) and non-member price is 1,450 baht. Also available at all branches of Asiabooks, B2S, Bookazine and Kinokuniya bookstores for 1,450 baht.
ISBN: 978-974-7348-54-5
Contact information:
Foreign Correspondents' Club of Thailand (FCCT)
Penthouse, Maneeya Center Building
518/5 Ploenchit Road (connected to the BTS Skytrain Chitlom station)
Patumwan, Bangkok 10330
Tel: +66 (0) 2652 0580-1
E-mail: fccthai@loxinfo.co.th
Web site: http://www.fccthai.com, www.tatnews.org

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The Tourism Authority of Thailand together with MasterCard has launched “72 Hours Amazing Thailand” – a dedicated campaign presenting a host of exciting activities and special privileges exclusively for MasterCard cardholders visiting Thailand.
Mrs. Juthaporn Rerngronasa, Deputy Governor for International Marketing, Tourism Authority of Thailand, said, “72 Hours Amazing Thailand offers a new way for tourists to explore the beauty of Thailand within 72 hours. The campaign introduces customized travel routes and activities for MasterCard cardholders, as well as showcases a collection of Thailand’s newest and most stylish resorts and hotels, hip shopping destinations, luxurious pampering hideaways, chic dining outlets and top golf courses.”
“We are targeting the 72 Hours Amazing Thailand campaign at the mass affluent consumer, aged over 25 years old, who enjoys traveling and experiencing new places which are in vogue in Bangkok and its surrounding areas,” Mrs. Rerngronasa added. As part of the campaign, an English language guidebook - “72 Hours Amazing Thailand” - will be produced for tourists.
According to the latest MasterIndex of Travel (H2 2007) by MasterCard Worldwide, Thailand is among the most preferred personal travel destination for Singaporeans. Ms. Eileen Wee, Vice President and Country Manager for Thailand, MasterCard Worldwide said, “The 72 Hours Amazing Thailand campaign launched by Tourism Authority of Thailand enables visitors to fully enjoy and experience the natural beauty of Thailand, as well as the many attractive offerings and exceptional service that this tourism paradise has to offer to the sophisticated, style-conscious traveler of today. The campaign is an example of how Thailand constantly refreshes itself as a travel destination.”
Until the end of August 2008, customers making transactions with their MasterCard cards will receive up to 50% off their purchases at over 200 leading hotels and resorts, shopping centers, beauty and nail spas, fine dining restaurants, golf courses and retail outlets in Thailand, in addition to a range of other privileges.
MasterCard cardholders can also indulge in the best spa destinations such as S Medical Spa – one of only two medical spa retreats in the world with the Hydrotherapy 7 in 1 with Shirodhara – an integrated treatment that cares for the mind, body and soul. Services include purification programs, holistic massage and body work, hydrotherapy and full-day wellness programs. MasterCard cardholders also receive VIP treatment at the Banyan Tree Spa at the Banyan Tree Hotel Bangkok - an ideal sanctuary for physical and spiritual well-being.
More Information:Website: www.thailand72hrsamazing.com
and http://www.tourismthailand.org/

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Date : 31/10/2007 To 04/11/2007
Place : Karon Beach, Phuket
Phuket Thailand Open is part of the Swatch-FIVB World Tour for professional women players and is the biggest beach volleyball event staged in Thailand. The Phuket Thailand Open is the last stop on the 2007 World Tour. Teams who will play in the tournament will be all the top beach volleyball teams from around the world: Brazil, USA, Germany, Switzerland, Norway, Netherlands, Australia, China and Japan.
PHUKET 2007 - After staging women’s FIVB Challenger/Satellite events in Pattaya (2001), Bangkok (2005) and Phuket (2005), followed by its first World Tour stop last year, Thailand continues its tradition in 2007 with the final stop on the women's calendar.  The 2005 Phuket stop served as a prelude to the 2006 season-finale where the competition was part of the Andaman Festival to mark the first anniversary of the Tsunami of 2004.  Jennifer Kessy and Heather Lowe won the 2001 Pattaya events for the United States while China’s Linjun Ji and Whenhui You captured the Bangkok stop.  Lijun Ji was 18 years old when she won the event to become the youngest player ever to win “any” international Beach Volleyball event.  Eiko Koizumi and Shinako Tanaka captured Japan’s first-ever international Beach Volleyball gold medal by winning the 2005 Phuket event. At the 2006 event, China's teams rounded off a strong season with a 1-2 sweep by Xue/Zhang Xi and Tian Jia Wang, who finished third and second respectively in the final season ranking.

More Information:
Website:http://www.pentanglepromotions.com ,
http://www.fivb.org/
Tel: 02 382 3491-3

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