• 
• 

Published on December 20, 2007

Well-known athletes from 21 countries have already confirmed their participation in the event, which will be held between January 15 and 20 as part of the King's 80th birthday celebrations.

The course has been set up specifically for surfers to explore the natural beauty of Phuket, as it will take competitors through the resort island's five famous beaches.

Olympics gold medallist Christoph Sieber of Austria heads the glittering field, which also includes Guy Gribb, one of England's finest surfers, France's Patrice Belbeoc, who already has the world championships in his portfolio, and Riccado Giordano of Italy, the former European champion.

Veteran Aran Hoamraruen, the Bangkok Asian Games gold medal winner, will spearhead the hosts' assault.

Kitinan Sanguansak

 The Nation