Massive flooding in the northern region of Thailand forced Special Olympics Thailand to postpone many of its 2011 events. One affected event was the annual fundraising Golf Tournament, Khun Anand Panyarachun Charity Golf. With the rains gone and the sun shining, eager participants were finally able to tee off on 28 January 2012 at the Eastern Star Golf Resort in Rayong province. A total of 27 teams competed under the 36-system competition rule.
Showing his appreciation for VIPs, main sponsors and supporters, the tournament benefactor, Mr. Punyarachun, hosted a Pre-Tournament Dinner Party at his residence. Both the Pre-Tournament Dinner Party and the Awards Dinner on the final day featured a speech from athlete Janjira Dejudom and a video presentation of Special Olympics Thailand’s activities. Football silver medalist Janjira talked about competing in the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Athens. Janjira also participated in the Special Olympics Athlete Leadership Program (ALP), where athletes train for leadership roles in Special Olympics, such as movement spokesperson, coach or official. ALPs equipped Janjira to speak publicly about her Special Olympics experience..
The tournament’s sponsors included Siam Cement Group, Siam Commercial Bank, SCB Life Insurance, Government Savings bank and The Quant Group. A total of 2.1 million Baht (approximately US$70,000) was raised to sustain Special Olympics Thailand’s ongoing sports training and competitions.
The World of Special Olympics 