Walailak University, in collaboration with the Thai Senior Sepak Takraw Association under Royal Patronage, Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Sports Association, Tha Sala Subdistrict Administrative Organization, Thasala Prasit School, Nakhon Si Thammarat Sepak Takraw Club, and the Honda Union of Thailand, is hosting the 5th “Youth Honda Union Cup” Sepak Takraw Tournament, competing for the Royal Trophy of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, from May 22-28, 2024, at the Physical Education Building, Walailak University.

On May 22nd, the competition was officially opened by Mr. Apinan Chaowalit, President of Tha Sala Subdistrict Administrative Organization and Vice Chairman of the Tournament, who ceremonially struck the gong. The event report was delivered by Asst. Prof. Dr. Marisa Phumipak Na Nongkhai, Acting Director of the Center for Cultural Promotion and Sports, with Prof. Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, Acting President of Walailak University, Mr. Wiradet Sompita, President of the Thai Senior Sepak Takraw Association, Mr. Trairat Chairat, Deputy Governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Mr. Detchlop Simsiri, Secretary-General of the Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Sports Association, and other government and private sector leaders welcoming the athletes.

The 5th “Youth Honda Union Cup” Sepak Takraw Tournament for the Royal Trophy of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn is the result of collaboration from various network partners. The tournament aims to develop sepak takraw skills among youth and the public, encourage the involvement of both government and private sectors in preserving sepak takraw as the national sport, and elevate the standards of related industries and businesses. It also aims to promote sports tourism and recreation, with Walailak University providing the venue. The event has attracted around 3,500 participants, including youth sepak takraw players from Thailand, South Korea, and Malaysia, as well as officials, parents, and other stakeholders.

This year’s competition, held from May 22-28, 2024, at the Physical Education Building of Walailak University, Tha Sala District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, features contests in eight age categories: 18 years (both male and female, competing for the Royal Trophy), 12 years (male-female), 14 years (male-female), 16 years (male-female), 21 years (male-female), and senior categories of 45-50 years, 50-55 years, and 60 years and above. Spectators are welcome to enjoy the matches up close for free!

Source: https://www.wu.ac.th/th/news/24159/