Ratchaburi: The 12th “Ratchaburi Open” Taekwondo competition was a vibrant event, attracting over 800 athletes to compete at the 4,000-seat gymnasium in Ratchaburi Province. The competition was held to vie for the prestigious trophy awarded by Mr. Sinat Rungcharoen, President of the Sports Association of Ratchaburi Province. The opening ceremony was chaired by Mr. Sanya Thirakhemkul, Advisor to the President of the Ratchaburi Provincial Administrative Organization.

According to Thai News Agency, the event was led by Ms. Nutcharin Sukkongdamnoen, a former member of the Thai national 2004 Olympic taekwondo team, who served as the competition chairman. The large participation of athletes from across the country highlighted the growing popularity of taekwondo and its significance in youth sports.

Ms. Nutcharin emphasized the importance of the Ratchaburi Open in providing young athletes a platform to gain experience and potentially join the Thai national team. She has also opened a taekwondo gym in Ratchaburi Province to further promote sports and educational opportunities for the youth, expressing her pride in using sports as a tool to nurture the next generation.

Former Olympic bronze medalist and Thai national taekwondo athlete ‘View’ Yaowapha Burapolchai congratulated Coach Nutcharin for her dedication in organizing the event for 12 consecutive years. She commended Nutcharin for inspiring many young athletes and expressed hope that these young participants would become integral contributors to the nation. Burapolchai also sent athletes from The Legend Arena in Hua Hin and View Taekwondo School in Kanchanaburi Province to compete in the event.

The Ratchaburi Open not only showcased the athletes’ skills but also underscored the role of former national athletes in inspiring and providing opportunities for the next generation, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.