The Government and all groups of Thai people are joining hands in preparing a mass bicycle ride event "Bike for Dad,” to celebrate the 88th birthday anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, 5 December 2015.
His Majesty the King is recognized as the "Father of the Thai Nation.” His birthday is also observed as Thailand’s National Day and National Father’s Day.
Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha said that the mass bicycle ride is in response to His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn's wishes to encourage Thai people from all walks of life to express their gratitude and loyalty to His Majesty on this special occasion. The event is also meant to show the unity of Thai people.
A total of 607,909 people signed up to take part in the "Bike for Dad" cycling event during the nine-day registration period. A total of 498,105 people registered in the provinces, 99,999 in Bangkok and another 9,805 from overseas.
It will be held simultaneously in all provinces nationwide on Friday, 11 December 2015, from 3:00 p.m. onwards. In Bangkok, the ride will begin at the Royal Plaza and pass through several major areas, such as Ratchaprasong, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok’s Chinatown, or Yaowarat, Wong Wian Yai, and the Democracy Monument. Then it will return to the Royal Plaza, for a total length of 29 kilometers.
In the provinces, the ride will start in front of the provincial town hall and pass through religious structures and other important places. The total length is also 29 kilometers.
The Government also invites Thai people living in foreign countries worldwide to join the mass bicycle ride on 11 December. The bike route will be designated by the local Thai people in each country.
His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn will lead the Bike for Dad event in Bangkok. He will grant 100,000 T-shirts, wristbands, and drinking water to participating officials and cyclists in this event. The Crown Prince has also instructed relevant agencies to arrange the Khon masked drama for the public to view between 11 and 13 December. The Khon performance is also intended to promote the preservation of Thai culture.
by Kittima Chanwattanasil
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