Abstract
Purpose To examine the achievement motivation levels of marathon runners in Uttaradit Province and to compare these levels based on variables of age and competition experience. Methods The sample group consisted of 22 marathon runners from Uttaradit Province, selected using purposive sampling. The research instruments included an achievement motivation scale, which consisted of general information, the achievement motivation scale itself, and an interview form. The data were analyzed quantitatively using frequency distribution, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. Differences were tested using One-way ANOVA, followed by pairwise comparisons using the LSD (Least Significant Difference) method. The significance level was set at 0.05. Resul t The study revealed that marathon runners in Uttaradit Province have a high overall level of achievement motivation. When comparing overall achievement m o t i v a t i o n l e v e l s b a s e d o n a g e a n d competition experience, the results showed no statistically significant differences at the 0.05 level. However, when comparing specific aspects of achievement motivation, it was found that runners of different ages had significantly different levels of self-efficacy at the 0.05 level. The interviews indicated that the most influential factors contributing to the success of marathon runners were self-efficacy and planning, which are key motivators that help athletes reach their goals and achieve success. Conclusion Marathon runners in Uttaradit Province exhibit a high overall level of achievement motivation, with specific aspects of motivation also being at a high level. There is no significant difference in overall achievement motivation among runners of different ages and competition experience. H o w e v e r , r u n n e r s a g e d 2 0 - 2 9 y e a r s demonstrate the highest level of self-efficacy in terms of achievement motivation.