2024 Thailand Open of Surfing Crowns Champions in Challenging Conditions
Phuket, Thailand – July 7, 2024
The 2024 Thailand Open of Surfing concluded today at Surin Beach, Phuket, with thrilling performances from top surfers across Asia and beyond. The two-day event, held on July 6-7, saw 57 competitors from Thailand, Hong Kong, Japan, Russia, Brazil, China, Philippines, and Taiwan battling it out in challenging 3-6 foot waves.
Competitors faced a mix of sunny spells and stormy weather throughout the weekend, with conditions switching rapidly between the two. The unpredictable weather created a demanding environment that truly tested the surfers’ adaptability and skill.
In the Men’s Shortboard division, Thailand’s Natthakron Saeiew, a member of the national youth surfing team, claimed victory with a score of 11.50. Nikita Avdeev from Russia, currently ranked #65 in the WSL Men’s QS 2024/2025, secured second place with 10.00 points despite the challenging conditions at Surin Beach.
China’s Hou Mingcai dominated the Men’s Longboard category, clinching his first Thailand Open championship with an impressive score of 15.50. Hou, who began his WSL Longboard Tour journey last year, demonstrated why he’s becoming a force to be reckoned with in international competitions.
The Women’s Shortboard division saw a dramatic turn of events as Isabel Higgs of Thailand dominated with a score of 14.00. This victory was particularly sweet for Higgs, as it marked a reversal of fortune from just yesterday when she was defeated by Annissa Tita Flynn in the 2024 National Championship. Flynn had to settle for second place this time with a score of 8.80. The quick turnaround showcases the dynamic and unpredictable nature of competitive surfing and highlights the fierce rivalry developing among Thailand’s top female surfers.
In a breakthrough performance, Thailand’s Dew Bunjarak Promchareon emerged victorious in the Women’s Longboard category with a score of 8.40. This marks Promchareon’s first international event championship, a significant milestone in her surfing career and a proud moment for Thai surfing. Her victory over tough competition, including second-place finisher Larita “Lala” Monroe, also from Thailand, underscores the depth of talent in the country’s surfing community.
The 2024 Thailand Open of Surfing showcased the growing talent in Asian surfing and the sport’s increasing popularity in the region. Despite the challenging conditions, competitors demonstrated remarkable skill and determination, making this year’s event a resounding success. The event also highlighted the rapid progress and fierce competition within Thailand’s surfing community, with national team members and rising stars making their mark on the international stage.
This prestigious event was made possible through the generous support of several key sponsors. The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) and the National Sports Development Fund (NSDF) provided crucial backing, demonstrating the growing recognition of surfing at the national level. Local support came from the Chengtalay Subdistrict Administrative Organization, highlighting the community’s commitment to the sport. Corporate sponsors included Haadthip and MVP, while the Thailand Boat Festival also lent its support. The Surf and Ocean Foundation’s involvement underscored the event’s connection to marine conservation efforts.
Full results of the 2024 Thailand Open of Surfing are as follows:
