Phuket, Thailand’s paradise island province, is best known for its serene beaches, vibrant nightlife, and, as of recently, its burgeoning sports culture. The island is now gearing up to be at the centre stage of Thailand’s sports scene, hosting the forthcoming 48th National Sports Competition and the 38th National Paralympic Games, otherwise referred to as the “Phuket Games.”
Major Sporting Decision
In an atmosphere of heightened anticipation, a meeting was convened on March 16, 2023, to discuss this sports extravaganza. Chaired by Deputy Governor of Phuket, Mr. Danai Sunanarod, the summit marked a significant milestone in Phuket’s sports scene. The decision makers’ assembly boasted an array of respected figures, including Mr. Thammarat Wongcharoenyot, the president of the Phuket Sports Association, Mr. Damrong Chaisena, director of the Sports Authority of Thailand in Phuket, and Ms. Narumon Srisatchang, the provincial treasurer of Phuket.
Dates Set, Athletes Poised
The island’s tropical climate will play host to the national sports competition from May 19th to May 28th, 2023. Preceding this will be the national paralympic games from May 8th to May 13th, 2023. Both these landmark events aim to select regional representatives from southern Thailand to partake in the national games.
Next Stop: Kanchanaburi
Phuket’s chosen sportspeople will then compete in the “Kanchanaburi Games,” a national sports competition scheduled for August 14th to 29th, 2023, followed by the “Kanchanaburi Para Games,” the national paralympic competition, taking place from September 2nd to 6th, 2023, in Kanchanaburi province.
The Devil is in the Details
A range of critical subjects were debated during the committee’s meeting. These included potential competition venues, accommodations for athletes and officials, and the rules and regulations of the organising committee. These discussions were aimed to ensure the smooth execution of the events, taking into account the Ministry of Finance’s regulations on public procurement and state property management from 2017.
Phuket: A New Sporting Capital
The anticipation for these sporting events has truly put Phuket on the map as a rising star in Thailand’s sports scene. With its rich history of hosting international sporting events such as the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta, the Laguna Phuket Triathlon, and the yearly Phuket International Marathon, Phuket is quickly becoming a hub for diverse sporting activities.
Mr. Sunanarod conveyed the importance of a successful execution of the games to showcase Phuket’s capabilities as a gracious host. This collective effort not only sets the stage for a memorable sporting event but also paves the way for future regional athletic development.
Countdown Begins
With the full backing of the local government and sporting authorities, the anticipation surrounding the upcoming Phuket Games continues to grow. As the countdown begins, Phuket stands ready to host a memorable sporting spectacle that will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on Thailand’s sports history.
