The competition, otherwise known as the “2024 I.W.F. World Cup,” took place at the Khun Lert Phokarak Convention Center at Phuket Rajabhat University (PRU) between Mar 31 and Apr 11 with over 1,600 athletes and officials from more than 120 countries taking part.
Team Thailand won a total of seven medals, including six silver and one bronze, which was sufficient to secure the four spots at the summer extravaganza in the French capital.
The quota includes two spots for male athletes in the 61kg and 73kg weight classes and two spots for female athletes in the 49kg and over 81kg categories.
Maj. Gen. Intharat Yodbangtoey, President of The Amateur Weightlifting Association of Thailand, said he was delighted with the performance of all Thai competitors.
Knowing the country had at least four spots for the biggest tournament in the world later this year was very impressive and more than most other countries, he added.
Which athletes will represent Thailand has yet to be confirmed although Thanyathorn Sukcharoen and Surachana Khambao in the women’s 49kg and over 81kg and Teerapat Chomchuen and Teeraphong Silachai in the men’s 61kg and 74kg are considered the favourties to claim the spots.
Thailand had a total of 18 athletes competing in the Phuket qualifiying competition, with nine male and nine female athletes.
The opening ceremony was held on Mar 31 at PRU, overseen by Mongkol Wimonrat, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, and Mohammed Hasan Jarood, President of the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF).
The closing ceremony was held on Thursday evening (Apr 11), overseen by Sports Association of Phuket President Thammawat Wongcharoenyot, who was joined by Kitti Chawandee, Secretary to the Minister of Tourism and Sports, and Mr Jarud.