Phuket Games 2012 postponed due to Bangkok floods

PHUKET: The 28th National Youth Games, originally scheduled to be held in Phuket from March 18-28, have been postponed.

Phuket Governor Tri Augkaradacha announced the news yesterday at a meeting of the organizing committee, attended by Phuket Provincial Administration Organization (OrBorJor) President Paiboon Upatising and Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) Phuket Office Director Wirat Patee.

Dubbed the “Phuket Games 2012”, the event comprises 40 different sports to be contested by young athletes from across Thailand.

The games are now scheduled to take place from May 26 to June 5, Gov Tri announced.

“The governors of provinces seriously affected by floods [in Bangkok and surrounding areas] sent letters explaining that they were not ready for the games,” explained the governor.

“They are currently facing issues traveling to Phuket as well as problems training their athletes,” he added.

The committee sees the postponement as good news for Phuket.

“We will have more time to find the financial support, from the government and the private sector, needed to prepare and welcome about 14,000 visitors from around the nation,” Governor Tri said.

“From May 26 to June 5 is the best time [for the event]. If we host the games after that, it will conflict with the Asian Beach Games 2012 in Haiyang, east China, set to be held June 16-22, as well as with the Olympic Games 2012 in London from July 27 to August 22,” said SAT Director Wirat.

— Pimwara Choksakulpan