Thai Port Authority Funds Youth Snooker Development With 1 Million Baht
The Port Authority of Thailand donated 1 million baht to develop youth snooker, pledging continued support as Thai players compete at world-class levels with plans to host two major international championships next year.
Acting Director of the Port Authority of Thailand Rattakorn Khiewpaisan presented 1 million baht in support to the Billiards Association of Thailand, with Sunthorn Charumunt, chairman of the association, and Panchaya Channo ("Mind Sakol"), a world snooker champion and professional player, accepting on behalf of young athletes at the Port Authority's Khlong Toei headquarters on August 6.
The acting director said the Port Authority is committed to continued backing for Thai snooker, marking the second year of support. He noted that Thai cue players are developing steadily and competing on level ground with world-class athletes, and he wants to see young players grow into skilled and ethical snooker professionals. The authority pledged to help further develop the Thai snooker scene.
Regarding efforts to remove snooker from the Gambling Act B.E. 2478, officials said this would allow snooker to progress legitimately and receive full support going forward, benefiting both the sport and its players. Sunthorn said young athletes aged 8-18 came to thank the Port Authority for its ongoing support and pledged that the association would work hard to achieve success and bring credit to Thailand. He noted that two major events are planned for next year: Thailand will host the World Youth Snooker Championship and the World Snooker Championship for amateurs, with champions earning opportunities to compete in professional events.
