Host Flies High in Flag Football at Asian Beach Games

(ATR) It was a meaningful victory for both the host nation and the game of American football.

Thailand won the gold medal contest in beach flag football defeating Kuwait 58-39.

The three-day competition – which kicked off prior to the official opening of the 4th Asian Beach Games – marked the first time that a discipline of American football was contested under the Olympic umbrella. The Beach Games in Phuket are organized by the Olympic Council of Asia.

"This is the first time we are inside the Olympic family program, so it is a huge step for us," said International Federation of American Football (IFAF) president Tommy Wiking.

Thailand quarterback Saranloef Phithaya, 26, orchestrated victory with a masterful performance, throwing for five touchdowns, rushing for three and catching another. Kuwait’s defense couldn’t stop the quickness and pinpoint throwing accuracy of the diminutive signal caller.

"This is the best team I’ve ever played on since I started playing flag football," said Phithaya, who began playing the sport at age 12. "I am so proud of this team and to be the champions here in Thailand."

"Since we have won gold, everyone in Thailand is going to know about the sport now," said Phithaya, who noted that he has been inspired by Tom Brady of the NFL’s New England Patriots.

Thailand was the dominant team of the tournament, finishing with an undefeated 6-0 record.

Although Kuwait battled hard in the finale, outscoring their opponent in the second half, they settled for silver. Japan and China shared the bronze medal.

Six Asian flag football teams competed in the round robin tournament, playing the traditional American game which seems poised for growth in Asia.

The game is played with four players on the field for each team with defenders trying to grab one of two flags hanging from each side of an opponent’s hips, instead of tackling.

"It has been a great tournament and I think everyone who has seen beach flag football here realizes it is a sport that will grow," Wiking said. "It is a quick and interesting game."

Beach flag football competition director Yanin Chalayayonnawin was satisfied with the three-day competition that was staged at the Saphan Hin venue cluster on the east coast of Phuket.

"We had a nice venue, a good field. Unfortunately, it wasn’t actually on the beach, but in a park, but I’m happy with the local organizing committee, the OCA and the government of Phuket," said Chalayaonnawin, the Thai secretary general of IFAF.

Beach flag football appears to be a likely candidate for inclusion in the inaugural World Beach Games in 2017, which were officially approved at last week’s ANOC general assembly in Bangkok.

"I would be very surprised if we are not in the World Beach Games," Wiking said. "Whether you like it or not, American flag football is growing at a rapid pace."

The 4th Asian Beach Games officially began with the opening ceremony on Friday night, also taking place at the Saphan Hin venue cluster.

Written and reported by Brian Pinelli in Phuket

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