In a recent development, Thai windsurfing athletes, under the leadership of Mr. Phatthana Bunsawat, the secretary-general of the Windsurfing Association of Thailand, paid their respects at the Royal Monument of King Taksin the Great at Pattaya City Hall in Chonburi Province. This gesture underscores their deep-rooted reverence for the monarchy.
Stepping into the spotlight of competitive windsurfing, Siriporn Kaewduangngam, also known as “Nong Dao,” clinched the gold medal in the female RSX windsurfing category. In the male RSX category, Natthaphong Pothinopparat, affectionately known as “Oat,” secured the silver medal, while the promising 18-year-old athlete, Athisha Homraruen, fondly referred to as “Nong Ploy,” bagged the bronze in the female IQ foil division.
Mr. Pramet Ngampichet, the Mayor of Pattaya City, extended a warm welcome to this esteemed group of Asian Games hero athletes. He commended their dedicated efforts and emphasized their significant contributions in bolstering the nation’s reputation and fostering joy among the Thai populace, extending beyond the city of Pattaya. This exemplifies a commendable demonstration of athletic excellence, bringing pride and happiness to the people of Thailand. Gratitude was expressed to all individuals involved in bringing joy to the Thai populace.
Sharing his insights, Mr. Phatthana Bunsawat, the secretary-general of the Windsurfing Association of Thailand, applauded the Thai national windsurfing athletes for surpassing expectations. He shed light on their upcoming agenda, detailing their rigorous training and forthcoming competitions in Hong Kong, Shenzhen (Democratic People’s Republic of China), and Okinawa (Japan) as part of their preparations for the Olympic Games.
However, Mr. Bunsawat also highlighted a pressing concern—the lack of adequate financial support from the government for the Windsurfing Association of Thailand. This financial constraint necessitates the association to independently source funding for the athletes to participate in various competitions. He earnestly appealed to the government to reinvigorate the ‘One Sports Association, One State Enterprise’ initiative, ensuring athletes receive the necessary financial backing to compete effectively in future competitions.