One of the longest-running triathlon races in Asia, the Laguna Phuket Triathlon, will be back for a 23rd edition on Nov 20.

What started out as a unique made-for-television event to showcase the destination resort to the world has grown to be a well-respected race with about 1,300 athletes from around the world participating in last year's event.

Yesterday at the Banyan Tree Hotel in Bangkok, organisers unveiled a fresh new look for the triathlon - a baby elephant mascot named Laguna, a re-designed logo and a new bike course for this year's race.

The race features a unique race distance of a 1.8km swim, a 50km bike and a 12km run, and has a total prize purse of US$20,000 (S$27,200).

Said Ravi Chandran, managing director of Laguna Phuket: "It is a delight to see the popularity of triathlon proliferates new races in Thailand and the region, while Laguna Phuket Triathlon, with its longevity and worldwide appeal, is being recognised internationally."

Singaporeans have also taken a liking to the triathlon. The Republic is ranked among the top five places of athletes' origin - together with Thailand, Australia, Hong Kong and Japan.

Registration is open until Nov 13. For more information and registration, please visit www.lagunaphukettri.com