Runners donate shoes to less-fortunate boy


Thai runners donate their own shoes to a disadvantaged boy
Image adapted from Ball Piyanatt

Ever since famous Thai rockstar Artiwara “Toon” Kongmalai started running marathons for charity, it has become a popular sport in Thailand. Many have since followed his footsteps to run not just for health reasons, but to help raise money for various charity runs. 

One such person is this young boy, 13-year-old Biew. Except, he didn’t have any proper running equipment and ended up having to run in his sandals. However, 2 fellow runners made his dreams come true in this heartwarming story. 


Runners noticed him in his sandals


On 3rd Dec 2019, Facebook user Ball Piyanatt shared a story about how he met Biew.

Kind Thai runners donate their shoes to a boy
Source

He wrote, “Don’t even talk about luxury shoes. For some, even a pair of normal running shoes are hard to afford.”

Ball shared that he was running in an event at Hual Krathak Ban in Thailand’s Lopburi province. They then saw a young boy running without any proper sports shoes – instead, he was wearing sandals. 

He and his friend decided to talk to the boy and found out that he loved running, but his family lacked the money to support his dreams. 

After talking to Biew, they found out that he shared the same shoe size. So, they decided to give him a pair of their own shoes in order for him to continue running. Biew also shared that he lived with his uncle and grandmother and hasn’t had the chance to continue his education either.

Thai runners donate their own shoes to a disadvantaged boy
Biew trying on his newly gifted shoes
Image credit: Ball Piyanatt

At the end of the post, Ball also invited others who lived nearby to contribute what they could to help the boy. He finished it by saying, “This is the longest Facebook post of my life. I hope this can help the boy in any way. Just a little thing, that’s enough.” 


An inspiring story that teaches us to share


Thai runners donate their own shoes to a disadvantaged boy
Ball (L) with Biew and his friend
Image credit: Ball Piyanatt

Ball’s post has since grabbed the attention of netizens all over Thailand who praised him for his kindness. Some even related to Biew.

Netizens praise Thai runners for their shoes donation

Source 

Translation: That’s really great. It reminds me of the time when I didn’t have any running shoes. 

Netizens praise Thai runners for their shoes donation

Source 

Translation: It’s a really good thing to make him happy.

Netizens praise Thai runners for their shoes donation

Source 

Translation: You two are very kind. 

Some users were also willing to donate their own items to support Biew. 

Netizens praise Thai runners for their shoes donation

Source 

Translation: Can I have his address? I will send him shoes and sports equipment. 

Sharing doesn’t just make the receiver happy but can make others around us feel happy as well. 

We hope this heartwarming story has inspired you to look out for others too. We wish Biew and Ball all the best!

If you’re interested in helping Biew reach his runner dreams, you can reach Ball on his Facebook page


Enjoying The Smart Local Thailand? Follow us on Instagram at @TheSmartLocalTH for more local stories in Thailand!

Drop us your email so you won't miss the latest news.