Sports tourism ‘key strategy’ for TAT, says official

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is one of the organisers of the ninth Seniors World Cup 2014 from June 2-7 in the province of Sa Kaeo.

The annual competition is part of the TAT-backed "International Recreation for Tourism Project", which aims to promote Thailand to the world as a major sports tourism destination.

This year’s event is expected to attract 350 footballers and football fanatics from around the world.

Apichart Intharapongpan, TAT deputy governor for policy and planning, said: "Sports tourism is set to become a key marketing strategy for TAT in its ongoing drive to attract new and more diverse visitors to Thailand.

"This Seniors World Cup 2014 provides an excellent opportunity for people to come and make use of our high-quality sporting facilities and enjoy some great sporting action.

"We know that it is events like these that will make Thailand a preferred destination for sporting events."

The Seniors World Cup 2014 in Sa Kaeo will see matches played by eight  teams hailing from England, Scotland, Australia, Iran, New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, Taiwan and home-team Thailand.