Chonburi residents warmly welcomed home Sukanya Srisurat who made her home province proud by winning a gold medal in weightlifting at the Rio Olympics.
Gov. Khomsan Ekachai led the welcoming party Aug. 20, congratulating the athlete for lifting a combined 240 kilograms to win the gold medal in the women’s 58kg bracket. He said she had made Thailand proud, especially her friends and family in Si Racha.
Others offering congratulations were members of the Weightlifting Association of Chonburi, the Amateur Athletic Association of Thailand and the Sports Association of Chonburi.
Her teachers and trainers – including Maj. Sakchai Tithajaree and Maj. Aranaya Buathongsai – were recognized as mentors who pushed her to succeed, proving Thailand has some of the world’s best athletes.
The 21-year-old set an Olympic record in the snatch with 110 kg., before lifting 130kg in the clean and jerk. Pimsiri Sirikaew took the silver medal in the same event, the first time Thai athletes have finished 1-2 in an Olympic event.
Srisurat gave Thailand its second gold medal in women’s weightlifting. Sopita Tanasan opened the Games with a gold in the 48kg class.
Khomsan also said Chonburi is prepared to support any individual who loves sports and especially those who are willing to commit their time and effort to become a professional. The province is known for promoting sports along with tourism and is aiming to establish a strong community where youths are encouraged to sharpen their skills for future competitions.
