Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya: The Thai Bridge Team has successfully secured tickets to compete in the World Youth Championship in Italy, achieving victories in three categories at the recent Asia Pacific Bridge Federation Youth Championships.
According to Thai News Agency, the 25th Asia Pacific Bridge Federation Youth Championships 2025 took place at the Cavalli Casa Hotel in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. The event concluded with a ceremony attended by Khunying Chodchoi Sophonpanich, President of the Asia Pacific Bridge Federation, and Mr. Chaiyawat Pisesith, President of the Bridge Association of Thailand. They presided over the event and presented awards to the winners.
The championship, held from May 1-6, 2025, aimed to select the top youth athletes from the Asia Pacific region to compete in the 2025 World Youth Bridge Championship in Italy this July. The competition featured more than 300 athletes across nine categories. The Thai bridge athletes delivered outstanding performances, earning quotas in three team categories for the World Championship. The under-21 team, consisting of Raksan Kongsat, Pholkrit Jindakul, Chinthee Saisit, Sirapop Saengtheun, Woranitha Phongpha, and Anuthida Kraikijras, won silver medals. The under-26 team, including Saran Kocharoen, Pris Promchan, Dechapol Nilchai, Supachok Sonyindee, Plakorn Phaisamdaeng, and Phimwaree Kongngen, took home the bronze medal. Additionally, the under-16 team, comprising Kritsana Ruangriwong, Suthisak Ubonchinda, Prichaya Aramruang, Punyisa Ngam-ek, Pakornkiat Yadnam, and Anurak Boon-asa, placed fourth.
In the doubles category, which does not feature in the world championship, Thai athletes achieved commendable results. The under-31 age group won silver medals, and the under-18 age group secured bronze medals.
Khunying Chodchoi Sophonpanich emphasized the cultural significance of hosting the event in Ayutthaya to promote tourism. The association introduced tourist attractions to the athletes and encouraged them to explore sites such as Wat Yai Chai Mongkol. Furthermore, a photo contest of Ayutthaya's tourist attractions was organized, with participants posting entries on social media for prizes. A sarong contest was also held, rewarding creativity and originality at the awards ceremony. The event was supported by sponsors including Global Power Synergy Public Company Limited and Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited.
Mr. Chaiyawat Pisesith highlighted Thailand's recognition in the bridge community for its skilled referees, effective organizing team, and the country's natural beauty. He called for government support to further develop bridge-related activities, which could generate additional income for the country. Despite the potential to host world-class competitions, financial constraints remain a challenge for the association.
