Thai Windsurfers Arrive in Senegal for Youth Olympic Games
Two 14-year-old Thai windsurfers, Itthipol Yamjinda and Praphawit Butrte, have arrived in Dakar, Senegal for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games after a 27-hour journey. Despite facing older, more experienced competitors in the under-17 division, coaches are optimizing their preparation and the athletes remain determined. Thailand earned two quota spots — a rare achievement — reflecting the nation's strong youth development program in windsurfing.
Thai national team windsurfing prospects Itthipol Yamjinda and Praphawit Butrte, along with coaching staff, have arrived in Senegal to prepare for the Youth Olympic Games. Wind Surfing Association of Thailand secretary-general Phathana Boonsawat revealed that the two athletes — 14-year-olds Itthipol Yamjinda and Praphawit Butrte — and coach Aran Homraeun reached Dakar safely after a journey exceeding 26-27 hours. The athletes are initially showing some fatigue, so Phathana has instructed coaches to provide full care, ample rest, and appropriate training schedules.
"We acknowledge both athletes have limited experience and are only 14, yet they must compete in the under-17 category, putting them at a significant disadvantage," Phathana said. "Coaches are doing their utmost to build strength and technique, while the athletes show great fighting spirit, training with dedication and determination. If wind and wave conditions cooperate and they find their rhythm during competition, they could still spring a surprise."
The association received two quota spots from World Sailing (WS) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC), awarded based on performance, world rankings, cooperation efforts, and youth development standards worldwide. Originally only one spot per country was allocated, but when some nations declined their slots, Thailand was granted an additional quota — one of only a few countries to receive two — demonstrating the association's youth development meets WS and IOC criteria.
