An athlete based in Hua Hin recently won a silver medal at the Asian Games competition in Hangzhou, China.
Having begun her kiteboarding journey 15 years ago at SurfSpot in Hua Hin, Benyapa Jantawan, nicknamed “Fawn,” triumphed at the Games despite a challenging time both on and off the water.
Her victory is all the more impressive, considering she had been grappling with injuries from a non-stop competition schedule throughout the year.
“I was so happy I won the silver medal at the Asian Games,” Fawn said, rightfully proud of her achievement. Despite the physical challenges, she credits her mental fortitude for her triumph: “Mind over matter, to push myself.”
This tenacity not only earned her a silver medal but also a coveted ticket to the 2024 Olympics scheduled for next July in Paris.
Fawn competes in Formula Kite, an exhilarating race around a course on water where the conditions can be treacherous, posing a significant risk of injury.
Recalling her initial days, she said, “I just gave kiteboarding a try and went on a three day course at SurfSpot Hua Hin. I found it really good fun and started practicing more during my days off from work.”
Fawn later participated in the Intercontinental PKRA event on Hua Hin beach in 2008, entering merely to experience the competition.
Notably, kiteboarding has been more than just a sport for her. “Before, when I worked, I used to get bad migraines that required medication. But after kiteboarding, I no longer get migraines. I love the sport; it gives me a sense of freedom and love for the outdoors,” Fawn expressed.
Her expertise doesn’t stop there. Fawn was among the pioneers in Thailand to use a hydrofoil board. She even made history as the first woman to go from Pattaya to Hua Hin across the Gulf of Thailand on a kiteboard.
Now competing around the world, Fawn’s talent has taken her to destinations like Oman, Qatar, the USA, and various European countries. To maintain her peak performance, she adheres to a rigorous training regimen, both on water and in the gym, involving weightlifting, Crossfit, and cardio.
Her dedication to the sport has even led her to gain weight, from 55kg to an intended 70kg, focusing on a protein-rich diet in order to build muscle and strength.
Kiteboarding’s popularity in Hua Hin can’t be understated.
The beach is a sought-after destination for the sport, offering perfect conditions, especially during the season which begins around November or early December. By April or May, the conditions are particularly ideal in the afternoons.
Athletes from around Asia including countries such as China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, India, Korea and Japan use Hua Hin as a training base during the kiteboarding season.
“Hua Hin has everything you could want if you like kiteboarding,” Fawn said. “The conditions are ideal, and the town has excellent facilities. Plus, the cost of living is relatively low compared to other destinations.”
As she looks forward to the Olympics, Fawn’s vision extends beyond her personal aspirations.
She hopes to inspire more women to take up kiteboarding and is ready to support them in their journey.
