Despite losing her father, Thai taekwondo honors "Nong Im" for gritting her teeth to win a medal at the 2026 Asian Games. They will host the funeral prayer ceremony on 5 October.
On 4 October 2026, the Thai national taekwondo team from the 2026 Asian Games, led by Yu Ballang Thapthimdaeng, the gold medalist in the men's 68 kg category, returned to the country at Suvarnabhumi Airport in the evening. They were warmly welcomed by “Secretary Big,” Mr. Thandit Raktabutr, Secretary General of the Thai Taekwondo Association, along with officials and athletes’ families who came to congratulate them.
“Secretary Big” revealed that at the 2026 Asian Games, the Thai taekwondo team achieved a total of 1 gold, 1 silver, and 3 bronze medals. The gold came from Yu Ballang Thapthimdaeng in the men's 68 kg category, and two bronze medals were earned by "Im" Patcharakarn Phulkert in the women's 49 kg category and “Kanomjeeb” Natthakamon Wasana in the women's 57 kg category.
In the Poomsae (forms) category, Navin Pindasut, known as “Moo Ping,” won silver in men's individual, while Thitaree Kaewolarwasu, known as “Baipo,” took bronze in women's individual Poomsae.
"The association wants to commend the dedication and effort of all athletes, which led to our success this time. Special praise goes to 'Nong Im,' who showed tremendous spirit and commitment despite losing her father during training in Osaka before the Asian Games."
"The association was informed by Coach Che and the management, who were understanding and supportive, even allowing her to return to see her father. However, Nong Im chose to compete and helped bring home a bronze medal, showing great heart and determination."
"The association wants to support Nong Im and will host the funeral prayer ceremony for her father on Monday, 5 October. Afterwards, Coach Che will give the athletes a 10-day rest following their intense training."
Coach Chatchai Che, head coach of the Thai national taekwondo team, said that they met their goal of winning 1 gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games, continuing a streak of gold medals since 2010 in Guangzhou.
However, this trip was challenging as nearly 80 percent of the athletes were new, putting pressure on both athletes and coaches. He admitted regret over missing some categories, noting that the competition was tough, especially since it was based on Olympic weight classes.
Looking ahead, the 2027 World Championship is very important. They need to accumulate many points to pave the way for the 2028 Olympics.
Meanwhile, Im Patcharakarn Phulkert, gold medalist in the women's 49 kg category, said, “I felt quite pressured because many opponents in my category were stronger, but I told myself I had to succeed. My family has been a great support. This medal motivates me to train harder and improve myself.”
“I want to dedicate this medal to my family, my father, and everyone. I sincerely thank everyone who supported me and sent many encouraging messages. I am truly grateful.”
