2. Inspiring and rewarding talented youth

Talented runners in Pursat are encouraged and motivated by the opportunity to win trophies and cash prizes - prizes range from 250,000 riel (about $62.50) for 1st place to 40,000 riel ($10) for 15th. These cash prizes have helped many poor rural youth with school expenses and with family income-generating activities. They also gain less tangible rewards - the chance to stand on a podium in front of a crowd of hundreds, to be presented with their prizes by the Provincial Governor - the enormous smiles on the faces of the winning athletes speak for themselves!

In addition, money raised by the Pursat River Run enables some of Pursat's best runners to continue to fulfil their potential by travelling to other races nationally, such as the Angkor Marathon. Often this is the first time for them to travel so far from home, and as well as a sporting opportunity, it is a great opportunity for personal development and broadening horizons.