Chonburi:The St. Gabriel Foundation of Thailand inaugurated the 17th Gabrielite Games 2026 at Sirindhorn Stadium, Assumption Sriracha School, celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Brothers of St. Gabriel's educational mission in Thailand. The event, held under the motto "ONE HEART, ONE SPIRIT," was presided over by Bro. Dionigi Taffarello, fsg Superior General of the Brothers of St. Gabriel from Italy.
According to Thai News Agency, the opening ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Brother Dr. Surakit Srisarankulwong, President of the St. Gabriel Foundation of Thailand, Brother Dr. Kulachat Chantachoto, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, and other members of the Brothers, along with administrators, faculty, athletes, and distinguished guests from across the country.
A colorful parade featuring athletes and marching bands from all 14 affiliated institutions marked the event's commencement. The procession included Thai national flags, 125th anniversary celebratory flags, institutional flags, and the Royal Trophy, symbolizing unity and pride within the St. Gabriel's community.
The event also included the ceremonial receiving of the Royal Trophy from Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, followed by the hoisting of the Games' flag. Torchbearers from the affiliated institutions ignited the cauldron, signaling the official start of the Games. Police Lieutenant Colonel Aphanant Sukhothai, an alumnus and senior athlete, led the oath of allegiance.
A highlight of the event was the presence of 'Bew' Puripol Boonsorn, a celebrated Thai sprinter who recently achieved significant success at the 20th Asian Games 'Aichi-Nagoya 2026.' Boonsorn won two gold medals in the men's 100m and 200m races, breaking Asian Games records, and a silver medal in the 4 x 100m mixed relay. His participation in the Games underscores his connection to the St. Gabriel Foundation's institutions.