Bangkok: The Sports Photojournalists Association of Thailand recently held a press conference for the upcoming 8th SEA Games 2025 at the Rajamangala National Stadium. Executives and representatives from five sports associations shared their goals and readiness for the 33rd SEA Games, scheduled from December 9-20 in Bangkok, Chonburi, and Songkhla.
According to Thai News Agency, Patit Waiwong, secretary-general of the Kiteboarding and Wingsport Association, announced that kiteboarding, a new addition to the SEA Games, will be featured in the men’s and women’s Formula Kite categories. Due to insufficient participation in the women’s category, only one gold medal will be contested. In the men’s category, Thailand aims for gold, although Singapore, a former Olympic bronze medalist, poses a strong challenge.
Admiral Arak Kaew-iam, advisor to the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, highlighted a historic moment with Her Majesty the Queen competing in this SEA Games. With eight sailing gold medals available, Thailand targets four to five, particularly in the women’s Optimist, women’s ILCA 4, men’s ILCA 4, and Mixed 470 events. Her Majesty will also compete in the Keelboat SSL 47 category.
Sakol Wannapong, president of the Shooting Sports Association of Thailand, expressed optimism for five gold medals despite strong competition from Singapore and Vietnam. The association has thoroughly assessed its targets after recent pre-SEA Games events.
Ek Boonsawat, manager of the Thailand Windsurfing Team, is confident in winning all four gold medals with athletes like Petty Officer 1st Class Nitipat Chaiwutthiwet and Aticha Homraruen. The team’s familiarity with local weather and venues offers a significant advantage.
Kittisak Chaimongkoltrakul, secretary-general of the Golf Association of Thailand, stated the country aims for at least two gold medals in golf, with male athlete Pongsapak “FIFA” Laopakdee recently winning the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship.
Following the press meet, Mr. Pallop Sripaiwan concluded that the five sports associations aim for a total of 16 gold medals. Overall, 49 associations are targeting 208 gold medals across various events.
The final Meet the Press SEA Games 2025 session will see eight more associations, including football and rugby, announce their readiness on November 18th at the Rajamangala National Stadium.