Just
how extreme is this?
The only thing more amazing
than the rapid development of extreme sports in Thailand is its roots. Thai extreme
sports didn't emerge from grunge culture or a pursuit of hedonism and excess,
but from a gauntlet laid down to society's youth at risk - those dabbling with
drugs, underperforming at school or otherwise losing their way. The challenge
was for change... The challenge was for greatness.
The man in
charge of extreme sports in Thailand is the same man responsible for promoting
them here in the first place - Khun Apichat Rutnin, former drugs rehabilitation
officer, gymnast, and Secretary General of the Extreme Sports Association in Thailand.
To him extreme sports represented an opportunity to challenge rule breakers to
push the envelope and in 1994 he scoured department stores and other youth hangouts
to invite youngsters to take part in informal in-line skating programs. Whether
slum kids or middle-class errant youth, it made no difference - these kids got
the right kind of addiction and with it the life changing drive and self-imposed
discipline that comes from a passion for something good. Fast forward to
1998 and the Asian X-games were held in Phuket. Out of nowhere, Thailand established
its credentials as an extreme sporting nation and began a series of achievements
that saw the country's extreme sportsmen and women travel the world in pursuit
of competition and victory. Today, the success of Khun Apichat's programs
for the young at risk have guaranteed their continuation, but with 2,000 youngsters
on his books, things obviously haven't stopped there. "These days our focus
has changed," suggested Khun Apichat. "Thailand's extreme sportsmen and women
are at a level where they are competing with the best of the best. Our emphasis
now is on 'sporting excellence' - on ensuring extreme sports in Thailand keep
developing at the rate they have over the last years. What we need now are people
with skills and experience willing to devote their time and energy to help us
get to the next level and further." And that's where you
might come in
If you have the skills and experience to offer
(and you will know if you are good enough), this is a chance for you to turn your
trip to Thailand into a genuine contribution both to extreme sports and the development
of Thailand's youth. You will teach them the tricks you have learned and also
pass on English language skills. In return you will learn Thai and get an insight
into the Thai way of life few will ever experience. At this stage the details
have not been hammered out, but it might be possible to assist those able to stay
for an extended period with visa arrangements, but even a couple of days will
do. Although free accommodation won't ever be part of the package, it may be possible
to arrange home stays for those offering training at centers outside Bangkok.
Think about this
does it get much better? At this stage we'd like
to hear from people who are planning a trip to Thailand and feel they might have
enough to offer to help out. Use the form below to let us know when you might
be heading out this way. We'll take it from there
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