This December, all eyes will be on Thailand as the nation proudly hosts the SSL Gold Cup Asian Qualifiers in Chonburi. For SSL Team Thailand, the event carries special meaning, welcoming some of the best sailors from across Asia to their home waters is both an honour and a milestone for Thai sailing.
After taking part in this year’s SSL Team Summer Camp in Grandson, Switzerland, the Thai crew continues to build their experience and teamwork, supporting the development of the sport and preparing for future SSL competitions.
Leading the national team is Noppakao Poonpat, one of Thailand’s most accomplished sailors. Nai has collected an impressive list of achievements, including two Asian Games gold medals and the 2010 Optimist World Championship title.
After stepping away from the sport for a few years to build a professional career, she now returns to the international scene with the same focus and passion that once made her a world champion. Under her leadership, the team combines experience, precision, and ambition qualities that will be crucial during the qualifiers.
Alongside their captain, Thailand’s line-up brings together some of the country’s most talented sailors, each with deep roots in both inshore and offshore racing.
Dylan and Don Whitcraft, long-time campaigners in the TP52 and 49er classes, contribute a wealth of tactical and technical expertise. Navee Thamsoontorn, a 470 class national team sailor, embodies Thailand’s Olympic spirit, while Anusorn Ngamrit and Sanont Khaisaeng bring extensive experience from regional and international competitions across boats like the TP52, Swan42, and Platu 25.
The team also includes Nut Butmarasri, Chusitt Punjamala, and Alexander Amarit Frefel who grew up competing in the Optimist and ILCA fleets before transitioning to larger, faster boats.
Thailand’s strength also lies in its diversity and inclusivity. Sailors like Nichapa Waiwai, a multiple Asian Games medalist and advocate for women in sport, represent a growing movement of Thai female athletes breaking barriers in sailing. Her presence alongside Captain Nai adds another layer of meaning to this campaign, showing young women across the country that sailing is a sport where skill and determination matter most.
As Thailand prepares to host the Asian Qualifiers, the excitement is building. Competing at home offers both comfort and pressure, but also a powerful opportunity. For SSL Team Thailand, it’s a moment to celebrate the growth of sailing in the region and to inspire a new generation to take to the sea.
With a mix of proven champions, rising stars, and a proud sailing heritage, Team Thailand is ready to make waves at the SSL Gold Cup 2026.
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