Bangkok: Thai windsurfing stars acknowledge that their performance at the "IQ Foil Junior and Youth World Championships 2026" in Spain did not meet expectations. Mr. Phatthana Boonsawat, Secretary-General of the Windsurfing Association of Thailand, revealed that the association sent three promising young athletes to compete in the event held from July 3-10, 2026.
According to Thai News Agency, the competition has concluded with the following results: In the boys' under-19 category, 'Fluke' Wachirawit Manbamrung finished 98th with 152 penalty points, and 'Wal' Wachirawit Ton-up finished 104th with 164 penalty points. In the girls' under-19 category, 'Cake' Chanatkarn Charoensuk finished 50th with 356 penalty points. The athletes were coached by 'Coach Oat' Nattapong Pothinoparat.
Mr. Phatthana Boonsawat stated that overall, the athletes' performance in this event was below expectations. In the early days, both male athletes experienced minor equipment damage, hindering their boat's performance. However, they managed to adapt and improve their rankings later on. Compared to their Asian competitors in the Asian Games, Thai athletes ranked 5th in both categories. The competition was divided into heats, and on some days, Thai athletes were in the same heat as Asian athletes, making the competition very close, with wins and losses alternating. Even though the overall result was a loss, the athletes put up a strong fight.
Meanwhile, I received a report from Coach Oat that the areas needing improvement in both categories are the starting techniques, time calculation, distance calculation, and more meticulous game planning. This competition had a large number of athletes, resulting in many variables. Even a slight mistake can cause a significant drop in ranking, unlike the Asian Games which had fewer athletes and allowed for better control. We will use these mistakes to improve and prepare for the Asian Games in September 2026. Personally, I am confident that the Thai windsurfing team has a chance to win medals.
The 20th Asian Games will be held in Nagoya, Japan, from September 19th to October 4th, 2026. Windsurfing will offer four gold medals: Men's IQ Foil (General Category), Women's IQ Foil (General Category), Men's IQ Foil (Under 19 Category), and Women's IQ Foil (Under 19 Category). The association has already trained a number of athletes and will make an official selection at a later date.