Thailand may have been disappointed when it was announced that some Olympic sports are to be dropped from the 27th SEA Games in Myanmar in December. But there is no concern among golf fans, who are looking forward to their players dominating the competition.
Kiradech Aphibarnrat, left, and Thailand national coach Boonyarit Euasilprasart launch the new Titleist ball last week.
Thailand's bid to win their first ever golfing medal at the Asian Games failed in Guangzhou in 2010, despite plenty of hard work.
With sights now set on the next Asian Games, to be held in Incheon, South Korea next year, Thailand's golfers are aiming to sweep all four gold medals at this year's SEA Games.
After the disappointment of the Asian Games, the Thailand Golf Association (TGA) made several changes.
American coach Gerry Norquist was replaced by Boonyarit Euasilprasart to coach the men and Wirada Nirapathpongporn to coach the women.
In Myanmar, Thailand hopes to improve on the previous Games _ in Indonesia in 2011 _ where they won two gold medals, in the men's individual and men's team, along with three silver medals, in the men's individual, women's individual and women's team.
Boonyarit, who has been in charge of the team since late last year, aims to at least match the haul of medals from Indonesia.
"We can beat every country in the region," Boonyarit said.
"I want my players to win the gold in both the men's individual and team events. I also hope we can win the silver in the men's individual."
Boonyarit expects his players to play 37 holes every day and undergo fitness training. After taking his 10-man squad to train in Hua Hin last week, the coach was satisfied with their work.
"So far, I am happy with their games," Boonyarit said.
"During practice, I set up the course like on the Asian Tour, with a tough pin placement.
"I always make it tougher for them to give them more experience."
TGA president Rungsrid Luxitanond shares the coach's confidence and expects Boonyarit to takes the team to the next level.
"Boonyarit will bring a new dimension to the team," he said. "He is well-known for his knowledge of golf and for his discipline."
Thailand ace Kiradech Aphibarnrat also praised the TGA for appointing Boonyarit as the national coach.
"It is a good decision and I am happy the young golfers have such a great coach," said Kiradech, who is coached by Boonyarit.
"He might be tough but his golf knowledge is great. He makes every shot easier."
Although Thailand's professionals are accomplished on the international stage, their amateurs are less well-known.
Boonyarit must select four players for the SEA Games and, although there are still tournaments to be played before he finalises his team, Boonyarit already has an idea of which players will make the cut.
"Natipong Srithong is the first and the second will be Itthipat Buranathanyarat," he said.
"I am sure they will have bright futures. For the other two spots, I need more time to decide."