Sport
Thai Surfing Team Departs for 2026 Asian Games in Japan
The Thai national surfing team has traveled to Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, to compete in the 20th Asian Games, aiming for gold medals and Olympic qualification.
On September 22, 2026, the Thai national surfing team departed for Japan to participate in the 20th Asian Games held in Aichi-Nagoya. According to Khaosod Online, the team arrived in Japan via Thai Airways flight TG644 to compete in the Shortboard category. The squad consists of four athletes: Nattakorn Sae-iew and Tinn Johnson for the men’s division, and Isabelle Fay Hick and Annissa Thita for the women’s division.
Chanin Aiyaraks, President of the Thailand Surfing Federation, represented by Secretary-General Mongkol Sappathanawin, expressed high hopes for the team. The federation has set ambitious goals, aiming not only for gold medals but also for securing qualification spots for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
For residents and visitors interested in the local sports scene, this event highlights the growing professionalization of surfing in Thailand. The performance of these athletes in Japan will be a significant indicator of the country's standing in international water sports. While the team has arrived safely, the final results and the specific outcomes regarding Olympic qualification remain to be confirmed as the competition progresses. Fans are encouraged to follow official updates from the Asian Games organizers to track the progress of the Thai representatives.