HUA HIN, Thailand (Jan. 3, 2011) — The historic town of Hua Hin will serve as a finish line Jan. 23 when an estimated 500 participants in the Bangkok-Hua Hin Double Century bicycle ride come pedaling in.

In its 10th year, the ride begins with 7 a.m. check-in at Bangkok's Chaloem Phrakiat Sport Training Center Park. Approximately 45 minutes later, riders will start the 200-kilometre journey toward Thailand's most regal resort region, with three energy replenishment breaks — including lunch — scheduled along the way.

“The ride is non-competitive, but with 500-plus cyclists it does create an environment of challenge,” said Pitanu Boonyaratvej of Arlymear, the event’s organizer. “It’s pure adrenaline fun.”

At 4 p.m., riders will gather at Hua Hin's Queen Sirikit Memorial Park to sing Long Live the King in honor of the town's most esteemed resident: His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who celebrated his 84th birthday earlier this month.

Arlymear is coordinating with traffic police on the safest route out of Bangkok. Maps and coordinates will be provided closer to the event.

Founded in 1909, Hua Hin became a popular retreat among Thai sovereigns 12 years later, when a railway station and hotel were erected to service elite train travellers between Bangkok and Singapore.

During the past two decades, the region has increased its overall tourism allure thanks to an influx of high-end hotel brands. In fact, many of its resorts are now mainstays in the awards issues of the most prestigious publications in the world.

Earlier this year, some of the area’s elite properties came together to form “It’s in Hua Hin”, a cooperative comprising Anantara Hua Hin, Banyan Resort & Golf, Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, Hua Hin Hills Vineyard, Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa, Hyatt Regency Hua Hin, InterContinental Hua Hin Resort, Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa and Sofitel Centara Grand Resort & Villas.

In addition to broadcasting news about its members, “It’s in Hua Hin” aims to be a source of information for events of interest to visitors, such as the annual Vintage Car Parade, Hua Hin Jazz Festival and Double Century Ride.

For more information about the Double Century Ride, contact Pitanu Boonyaratvej of Arlymear Travel at pitanu@arlymear.com.