Thailand’s equestrian team has achieved a landmark victory, clinching the gold medal in the eventing team competition at Tokyo’s Equestrian Park. The triumphant performance, marked by a total of 109.90 penalty points, represents Thailand’s first gold in this discipline since the 1998 Bangkok Asian Games. This significant win also contributes to the nation’s growing medal tally, marking its fifth gold of the 2026 Games.
Equestrian Team’s Historic Gold
The Thai contingent demonstrated exceptional skill and consistency across all three phases of the eventing competition: dressage, jumping, and cross-country. They recorded the lowest penalty total, outperforming rivals Japan, who earned the silver medal with 115.20 points, and South Korea, securing the bronze with 143.50 points. The gold medal-winning team comprised Woraphat Sittiju (riding B.Grimm Uster de Chanay), Korntawat Samran (B.Grimm Billy Elmy), Weerapat Pitakanonda (B.Grimm Carnival March), and Supap Khaw-Ngam (Vinetto 3).
The team’s success was bolstered by the dedicated efforts of individuals like Buraphon Buacha, the groom for B.Grimm Uster de Chanay. Buacha’s meticulous care in maintaining the horse’s health, readiness, and welfare was crucial throughout the demanding training and competition periods.
Individual Success in Equestrian
Further underscoring Thailand’s prowess in equestrian sports, Woraphat Sittiju also secured a silver medal in the individual eventing competition. Partnering with B.Grimm Uster de Chanay, Woraphat achieved a penalty score of 30.10. The individual gold was awarded to China’s Hua Tian with 26.90 points, while Japan’s Yoshiaki Oiwa took bronze with 31.70 points.
The competition schedule experienced adjustments due to disruptions from Typhoon Dujuan. Athletes completed the dressage and jumping phases on Tuesday, with the critical cross-country phase taking place subsequently. Despite the challenging program, the Thai riders maintained their focus and delivered strong, consistent performances.
