Phatthalung: The government is opening up opportunities for sports and recreation to improve the well-being of Thai elderly people. The government invites the public to cheer on senior athletes competing in the "Nora Games" in Phatthalung, utilizing sports and recreation to improve the well-being of Thailand's elderly and drive progress towards becoming a high-quality aging society.
According to Thai News Agency, Lieutenant Colonel Patthadarasmi Thongslueykorn, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that the 18th Thailand Senior Citizens' Sports and Recreation Games, or "Nora Games," will be held in Phatthalung Province from May 27-30, 2026. This year's competition is a collaborative effort between the Department of Elderly Affairs, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, and the Department of Physical Education, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, to promote holistic health for senior citizens - physically, mentally, and socially. This aligns with the government's policy of creating a "quality aging society" by using recreational and sports activities as a means to improve well-being, enabling senior citizens to live happily in society, have opportunities to meet and exchange experiences, and build positive relationships.
For the competition's identity, "Nora," a high-class local performing art with a distinctive character, has been chosen as the symbol to reflect the invaluable cultural values of Phatthalung province. The mascot is "Nong Imjai," a water buffalo from Thale Noi, which represents the local way of life and wisdom closely connected to nature. This year, more than 4,210 athletes and officials from across the country are participating, competing in 11 sports: athletics, golf, gateball, badminton, petanque, woodball, Thai chess, sepak takraw/circle kick takraw, ballroom dancing, Thai boxing aerobics, and one demonstration sport: shooting. In addition, there will be a karaoke singing competition (country and pop genres).
Captain Patthadarasmi said that the government does not view the Nora Games as merely a competition for victory, but as a way to create opportunities for senior citizens to showcase their potential, build social relationships, and raise awareness of the importance of health care. This will lead to the development of senior athletes at the national and international levels in the future.