Sanya, China, April 25, 2026: Thailand supporters erupted in joy as they witnessed an historic double when the 20-year-old Puripol Boonson officially claimed the title of "Fastest Man on the Beach" by winning the 60m gold in 6.62 seconds.
Already a household name as an Asian Games 100m silver medallist and the first Southeast Asian to break the 10-second barrier with a 9.94s in 2025, Boonson proved his elite speed is good for multiple surfaces.
Boonson trailed for nearly 45 meters, shadowed by China’s Huang Youchao and Liu Yang. While the sand functioned as a leveller for many, Boonson’s mental fortitude allowed him to surge in the final 15 meters, overtaking the Chinese duo at the tape.
Huang (6.67s) took silver while Liu (6.74s) picked up the bronze. Earlier in the morning, Jirapat Khanonta won the women’s 60m title in 7.46 seconds, the sweep highlighting the rapid evolution of Thailand’s sprinting programs, which are now consistently producing podium-ready athletes.
China would be disappointed with the silver and bronze, but they are known to recalibrate when the big competitions like the Asian Games come around. Four of the eight sprinters in the final set Personal Bests, including Boonson.
For him and Thailand, it’s now all about the transition from a teenage sensation to being a world star. It’s a gap few accomplish fluently. Despite his rising fame, he remains grounded in his process.
“I’m quite an outgoing person and tend to draw attention," he said.
"I always feel grateful, and people around me often say I’m persistent in and serious about what I do. In training, I keep repeating and refining my skills. I truly love my sport.”
Silver medallist Huang was equally reflective, acknowledging the gap between a strong start and a finished race. “I performed well, clocking 6.67 seconds which exceeded my expectation for the beach," Huang said.
"I had the advantage at the start, but I had a hunch I might be overtaken in the second half. My rivals displayed incredible ability; I have a lot to learn from them."
The Asian Beach Games athletics programme concludes this Sunday, April 26. Four gold medals remain up for grabs: Men’s and Women’s Sprint Relays, Men’s Shot Put and Women’s High Jump.