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The 41st Thailand University Personnel Games, known as “Tumpang Games,” officially opened with an impressive ceremony at Walailak University (WU), the event’s host. The opening featured a stunning light and sound show under the theme “Power of Spirit,” celebrating the true essence of sportsmanship - to win with humility, lose with grace, and forgive with heart.

On the evening of 3 May 2025, Ms. Waraporn Rungtrakan, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), presided over the opening ceremony. She was joined by Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University; Mr. Wittaya Kheawrod, Deputy Governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chusit Pradabpet, Chair of the University Sports Board of Thailand; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chanchai Suksuwan, Chair of the Subcommittee on Sports Promotion for Excellence; and delegations of athletes and staff from 59 institutions across the country. The ceremony was held at the Tumpang Main Stadium, Walailak University, Tha Sala District, Nakhon Si Thammarat. 

In her remarks, Ms. Waraporn Rungtrakan expressed her delight and honor in opening the event, stating that sports are universally recognized as a powerful means of building relationships, understanding, unity, and teamwork. MHESI has continuously supported the University Personnel Games to promote the holistic well-being of higher education personnel - physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, and intellectually - while fostering friendship and solidarity among institutions nationwide.

She also offered words of encouragement to the athletes: “Every competition has its triumphs and setbacks, influenced by various factors. I urge all participants to display the true spirit of sportsmanship. Let sports strengthen our friendships, not divide us. Let us win with humility, accept defeat with dignity, and always forgive one another.”



Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University, noted that this is the third time WU has had the honor of hosting the University Personnel Games - first in 2006, then in 2012, and now again in 2025. He emphasized that the university has long prepared its sports facilities to meet national standards and is committed to continually improving its capabilities to host both national and international sports events.

“I wish everyone great success throughout the Games,” said Professor Sombat. “May this competition truly embody the spirit of sportsmanship - knowing how to win, how to lose, and how to forgive. Let us work together to build lasting friendships, joy, and unity among university personnel throughout Thailand.”





The opening ceremony, held from 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM, began with a ceremonial torch relay starting at Tha Sala District Office and concluding at the Tumpang Main Stadium. Participants in the torch run included the WU President, the Tha Sala District Chief, the Chief Executive of Tha Sala Subdistrict Administrative Organization, local government and private sector leaders, university executives, and WU athletes. The torch was then passed to Mr. Pharadorn Jeenchaona, a Walailak University staff member and former Thai national tennis player who once competed in the Davis Cup, who lit the ceremonial flame to officially open the Games.

In addition, the host university presented a dazzling highlight performance titled “Tumpang Rak Nakhara Walai,” featuring a stunning display of lights, sound, and color. The performance symbolized the university’s growth and prosperity, rooted in a community with a rich and ancient heritage. It served as a tribute to the historical foundations that have shaped the development of Walailak University today, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees.

This year’s Games feature over 7,000 athletes competing for 426 gold medals across 17 sports disciplines. Spectators are warmly welcome to witness the excitement up close at Walailak University. The competition can also be followed online at https://tumpanggames.wu.ac.th or via the official Facebook page: 41st Thailand University Personnel Games “Tumpang Games” 2025.