Bangkok: The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) is taking significant steps to elevate the National Youth Games to an international level. Dr. Kongsak Yodmani, Governor of the SAT, announced the ambitious plan to upgrade the 41st National Youth Games, known as the "Surat Thani Games," to meet international standards. This move is part of Thailand's strategic effort to demonstrate its readiness to host the Youth Olympic Games.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Kongsak chaired the inaugural meeting of the Organizing Committee, which also included the draw for the "Surat Thani Games" and the 8th National Senior Games, "Tapi Games 69," scheduled for 2026. The meeting, held at The Grand Fourwings Convention Center in Bangkok, was attended by key figures such as Mr. Jumphot Wannachatsiri, Governor of Surat Thani Province, and representatives from various relevant agencies.
Dr. Kongsak emphasized that the upcoming competition is crucial as Thailand is in the final stages of its bid to host the 5th Summer Youth Olympic Games in 2030. Thailand is one of the final three countries being considered, and this event will serve as a vital platform to showcase the nation's potential and readiness to the International Olympic Committee.
The "Surat Thani Games" will take place from May 7-17, featuring 45 sports and one demonstration sport. Meanwhile, the "Tapi Games 69" will be held from June 8-14, with competitions across 15 sports.
In a related development, Mr. Somporn Chaibangyang, President of the Volleyball Association of Thailand, outlined the selection criteria for female volleyball players for the national team training camp. The focus will be on performance in the Thailand League and the availability of players who compete professionally abroad. Additionally, the selection process will accommodate injured players, considering the extensive schedule that includes the VNL, SEA V League, Asian Championship, and Asian Games.
The 30-member team will feature prominent players like setters Natthanicha Jaisan and Pornpun Guedparach, libero Piyanut Pannoy, and middle blockers such as Thaddao Nuekjeng, Hattaya Bamrungsuk, and Wimonrat Thanaphan. The team is scheduled to report at the Sports Science Center of the SAT in Hua Mak at 3:00 PM this afternoon.
Furthermore, Mr. Pongrat Leuangthamrongcharoen, President of the Professional Golf Association of Thailand (PGA Thailand), shared insights from the Annual General Meeting held at the All Thailand Golf Center. He highlighted the objective of creating international opportunities for Thai golfers. In collaboration with ADT, the secondary tour of the Asian Tour, the Singha-SA at ADT Hua Hin Championship 2026 will be organized from April 22-25, offering a prize pool of 3 million baht at the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course. This initiative aims to provide Thai golfers with a platform to gain world ranking points.
In addition to these initiatives, there will be domestic programs, co-sanctioned events with the All Thailand Golf Tour, and an emphasis on developing professional golf coaches.