Tour of Thailand event to start in Kanchanaburi

The Tour of Thailand 2023 starts in Kanchanaburi today and finishes in Rayong on April 6, organisers said on Friday.

A large number of local and foreign riders will compete in the country's prestigious cycling tournament, which is recognised by the sport's governing body UCI.

The winner will receive the trophy graciously donated by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.

There are six stages in the 2023 edition covering 1,032.90 kilometres.

Gen Decha Hemkrasri, president of the Thai Cycling Association (TCA), said the tournament offers qualifying points for the 2024 Olympics.

There are 15 teams of professional and amateur cyclists in the event including the national sides of Thailand, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Malaysia and Singapore, Decha said.

Thai coach Visut Kasiyapat said local cyclists, from the national and Thailand Continental teams, are ready for the tournament.

He said there are many contenders for the title including those of the JCL Ukyo Team from Japan, Terengganu Polygon from Malaysia, and LX Cycling from South Korea.

Many Southeast Asian riders will use this tournament as a test before the SEA Games to be held in Cambodia next month, Visut said.

The most difficult stage is the third from Ayutthaya to Khao Yai National Park in Nakhon Ratchasima, he said.

The women's event will be held in Rayong from April 8 to 10, 2023.