PADI, diving and Instructor Development (IDC)

Daily weather update for tropical island destination Koh Samui in Thailand by long term resident Camille Lemmens

On 12th June 2011, PADI Platinum Course Director, Camille Lemmens will swap his scuba diving fins for running shoes as he participates in the Laguna Phuket International Marathon to raise funds for marine conservation.

Taking part in the half marathon Camille will join over 5,000 walkers and runners of all ages. But rather than just being a regular participant, Camille wants to do something positive for our oceans.
"As a PADI Platinum Course Director I'm privileged to spend many of my working hours underwater seeing the amazing diversity that Mother Nature offers. I also have a responsibility to ensure the continual and prolonged healthy underwater world," said Lemmens.

"I've taken part in many marathons but this year I wanted to do something a little different. So I'm raising funds for Project AWARE, whose goal is to encourage and inspire divers to be part of the solution for ocean protection."

Thailand's PADI Regional Manager Tony Andrews, immediately joined efforts with Camille and together they're planning to each run a half marathon.

Commenting on the marathon, PADI Regional Manager, Tony Andrews said, "I'm so excited that Camille has chosen to support PADI's environmental partner, Project AWARE Foundation. I encourage other PADI Members in the area to get involved and join Camille. And to show my support I will also take part and help raise funds for the charity."

Anyone can support Camille and Tony's efforts by:

• Joining the team and running or walking in either one of the distances available, the full marathon at 42,195 km, the half marathon at 21 km, a 10.5 km run, a 2km kids run or a 5 km walk.

• Sponsoring Camille and Tony with a minimum donation of AU$60 – 2.100THB ($3 for each kilometre they plan to run). Go to www.projectaware.org/phuketmarathon to make your donation online.

Donations over AU$100 will be listed on the Project AWARE website.

If you're interested in taking part in the Sponsored Run for AWARE then get in touch with Camille camille@idcthailand.net or PADI Regional Manager, Tony Andrews at tony.andrews@padi.com.au to find out more. Until 31st March Camille and Tony can offer reduced registration rates to all that want to participate in any of the mentioned distances.

PADI Platinum Course Director, Camille Lemmens Runs for Ocean Protection at the Laguna International Phuket Marathon 12th June 2011