Well, kite-surfing actually.
An 8 year old boy has become the youngest person ever to kite-dsurf across the Gulf of Thailand. Thanawat “Shane” Promwaen set the record after windsurfing across 107 kilometres to mark his 9th birthday, which was yesterday, February 11.
Pattaya Mail reports that two previous attempts were prevented by unfavourable winds, but it was third time lucky for Shane as he left from Surfspot in Hua Hin, ending his endeavour at Pattaya Kitesurfing Clubloongchat on Jomtien Beach.
Earlier he was going to do the trip from Jomtien to Hua Hin instead.
Boats with first aid practitioners and other safety features accompanied Shane on his journey, but thankfully, he made the crossing in 4 hours, 10 minutes without incident. His record-breaking time even surpassed that previously set by a jet skier.
(We bet he was happy just to put his arms down by the time he reached Pattaya!)
His father Somsak “Sam” Promwaen, was overcome with pride at his son’s achievement.
“When Shane finally landed, I cried a little and hugged him tightly. I felt super proud.”
Also present was Shane’s mother, Pawinee “Woon” Deenok, and his 11 year old sister, Fern.
Shane’s windsurfing career began when he was only 3 years old. He has now set his sights on becoming the youngest ever wing foiling world champion.
In between studying at Pattaya’s Satit Udomseuksa School, he has rigorous training sessions to make his dream of representing Thailand at the Olympics a reality.
SOURCE: Pattaya Mail
