Pattaya, Thailand – May 3rd, 2026 – Pattaya City Mayor Mr. Poramese Ngamphichet presided over a press conference yesterday morning to celebrate the achievements of Thailand’s national windsurfing team at the 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China.
The event, held at 11:00 a.m. at Surf Kitchen Restaurant in Jomtien, Pattaya, was attended by Pattaya Deputy Mayor Mr. Krisana Boonsawat, Rear Admiral Sarayuth Dangthet (Vice President of the Windsurfing Association of Thailand), Mr. Phatthana Boonsawat (Secretary-General of the Association), Pattaya City Council members, Chonburi Provincial Administrative Organization representatives, advisors, staff, association committee members, distinguished guests, media, and sponsors.
The Windsurfing Association of Thailand fielded a talented youth squad in the IQFoil event, consisting of:
– Mr. Wachirawit Thanup (Whale)
– Mr. Ratchanon Khunjeng (Klao)
– Miss Chanarutkan Charoensuk (Cake)
– Miss Wannida Inthachai (Joy)
The team was guided by experienced coaches Mr. Yutthaphong Phothinoppharat, Mr. Sakda Sakunfaeng, and Mr. Somphop Sakon-di.
Despite most Thai athletes being only 16–17 years old and competing in the Under-21 category, putting them at a disadvantage in terms of physical strength and experience, the team demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship and delivered commendable performances.
Notable Success: Mr. Wachirawit Thanup (Whale) secured a bronze medal, achieving the target set by the association. This marks Thailand’s first windsurfing medal in 12 years at the Asian Beach Games, since the 2014 edition in Phuket, where the Thai team won two silver medals through Miss Siriporn Kaewduangngam (Dao) and Mr. Natthaphong Phothinoppharat (Oat).
During the press conference, Mayor Poramese Ngamphichet expressed his admiration and congratulations to Wachirawit and the entire team of athletes and coaches for bringing pride to Pattaya and Thailand.
“On behalf of Pattaya City, I would like to congratulate and extend my full support to the Windsurfing Association of Thailand for their dedication in developing Pattaya’s young talents into national team athletes. They continue to build a strong reputation for both Pattaya and Thailand on the international stage,” the Mayor said.
“Pattaya is committed to providing ongoing support to strengthen our image as a ‘Sports City’ and to promote sports tourism on the global level.”
The Asian Beach Games 6 took place in Sanya, China, from April 22 to 30, 2026.
