A press conference, chaired by Pattaya Mayor Itthipol Kunplome, was held on April 4 at Krua Serf Beach in Jomtien to announce the success of the Thai windsurfing team at the RS:X World Windsurfing Championships 2012, held in Cadiz, Spain at the end of last month.
The event, which took place from 21-28 March, marked an important date on the calendar as it was the final chance for Olympic qualification and two local windsurfers, Aek Boonsawat and Napalai Tharsai, were able to achieve the qualifying standard and will thus represent Thailand at the London Summer Olympic Games to be held in August of this year.
Itthipol Kunplome, Pattaya City Mayor and president of Thailand Windsurf Association, presides over the meeting to welcome home the successful sailors.
Aek Boonsawat finished in 57th position overall in the ‘Gold Fleet’ but a top 60 place was all that was required for the local sailor to book his ticket to London. Napalai Tharsai meanwhile took 7th in the women’s ‘Silver Fleet’ and 47th place overall to join Aek on the flight to England later in the year.
Phathana Boonsawat, Secretary of the Thai Windsurf Association said the two sailors will now undergo intensive training and preparation in order for them to be able to perform at their peak at the London Olympiad. This will entail studying the form of other competitors as well as becoming familiar with the currents and wave conditions of the Olympic course.
Napalai Tharsai, left, and Aek Boonsawat pose for photos at the press conference held April 4 in Jomtien.
Aek Boonsawat performs during practice at the RS:X World Windsurfing Championships 2012 in Cadiz, Spain.
