Nagoya:Thailand A large contingent of Thai athletes is on its way to Japan to compete in the 5th Asian Para Games, aiming to secure 27 gold medals. The event, "Aichi-Nagoya 2026," will take place in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture from October 18-24, 2026. The Games will feature 18 sports with a total of 492 gold medals available, and Thai athletes will participate in all categories.
According to Thai News Agency, the Thai delegation, comprising 265 athletes and 147 officials, departed from Suvarnabhumi Airport on two Thai Airways charter flights, TG 8092 and TG 8094. Notable athletes leading the team include Sai Sunee Ja-na, Rungroj Thai-niyom, Pongsakorn Pae-yo, and Chaiwat Rattana. The send-off was attended by Mrs. Prodpran Samanmit, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), and Lieutenant Colonel Naiyanop Pirompakdi, President of the Paralympic Committee of Thailand.
Mrs. Prodpran Samanmit highlighted the benefits of chartering private flights, which ensure that all athletes arrive together and have their equipment ready, minimizing disruptions to their training. The team needs to undergo class testing together from October 13-15, 2026. Despite previous travel limitations, the Governor expressed confidence that the team will perform well, matching their past achievement of 27 gold medals at the 4th Asian Para Games.
The Thailand Association for the Blind is also preparing for the competition, sending 35 athletes to participate in six sports. Mr. Warakorn Krasaetanont, advisor to the association, expressed hopes of winning at least three gold medals, particularly in athletics and blind football. The men's 100m and 400m races are seen as strong prospects, along with the blind football team, which is currently ranked 6th in the world.
The association is optimistic about the athletes’ potential, noting strong performances in various sports. While there is confidence in winning medals, the outcome for gold remains to be seen.