Cheering on Team Thailand at the 'Sanya Games' "Sanya Games"
In just a few moments, those with sports in their blood will be able to closely follow and send encouragement, hoping the Thai athletes will reach their dreams on the continental stage.
This is the grandest beach sports event for Asians, known as the “Sanya Games 2026” or the 6th Asian Beach Games.
The event will take place in Sanya City, the land of the Chinese dragon, from 22 to 30 April 2026 GMT+7.
Today marks another occasion where Professor Ratthapong Boonyanuwat, director of the Human Capital Development Innovation Center at Kasem Bundit University,
joins me in sharing thoughts in the "Thairath Sports" column to cheer on Team Thailand in this major competition.
This Asian sports festival has the global powerhouse from the Great Wall of China aiming to make it one of the premier events where athletes from all Asian nations and spectators from all directions
will experience the atmosphere crafted with new technology and innovation.
When mentioning the People’s Republic of China hosting international sports events, looking at many past tournaments,
one must admit that each tournament's results have earned the respect and admiration of veterans in the global sports arena.
China is regarded as the 'big brother' who leads in developing and elevating every competition with flair that experts respectfully call "Boss."
However, as the battleground for this sports contest opens again after a 10-year hiatus,
Team Thailand will surely be among the forces not to miss this opportunity to showcase their prowess.
Recently, Dr. Kongsak Yodmani, the head of sports in the Huamark area, announced that Thailand will send a large delegation of 176 people competing in 14 sports.
Importantly, with the government and supporters joining forces and dedicating full manpower and financial resources,
it is believed that all sectors and sports fans craving joy from successes fueled by the fighters’ potential
are confident that all 176 athletes wearing the "tricolor flag" on their chests will give their utmost effort.
Nevertheless, even though it is uncertain whether the Thai athletes will become "gold medal champions" like in the recent SEA Games,
the honor and pride of "Thailand" competing against highly skilled and capable continental rivals
mean that fighting with over 100 percent heart will surely allow hopes to reach the target of 15 gold medals, as "Big Kong" hinted.
The targets where Team Thailand hopes to triumph over opponents and bring gold medals for Thai people to celebrate
mainly focus on sailing, athletics, jujitsu, rowing, volleyball, and kabaddi.
On the other hand, many other sports are expected to serve as testing grounds for Thai athletes to pave the way toward future global competitions.
One of the sports that Team Thailand has high hopes for, comparable to those mentioned, is the men's beach soccer team, which also has a chance to compete in this event.
It should not be forgotten that the Thai beach soccer team’s past achievements have been second to none.
Following close observation of the team’s preparation for this festival, the Thai players led by “Coach Ek,” Setthakorn ChaiChuenta,
were placed in Group B in the first round, considered a tough group facing leading powers such as Iran, the latest Asian champions, the UAE, and the oil-rich Saudi Arabia team.
Facing tough opponents, the Thai coach reflected that this is beneficial to compete with Asia’s top teams.
More importantly, it provides an opportunity to test their skills before Thailand hosts the Asian Beach Soccer Championship in Pattaya later this year,
where a ticket to the World Beach Soccer Championship is at stake.
Overall, the "Sanya Games 2026" is one of the continent’s top-tier festivals.
There is no way Thai athletes or any nation would miss the chance to measure their strength.
Above all, even though the intense Middle East conflict continues unabated,
once the games begin, it is believed that "Thai athletes" will give their all,
bringing smiles and happiness to the nation... undoubtedly.
Thailand, fight! Fight! Fight!
- B Bangpakong -