Avani Pattaya Resort was recently named the official lodging partner for the playing group consisting of players, caddies and LPGA officials by IMG the organisers of the Honda LPGA Thailand 2021 Golf Championship.
The prestigious US$1.6 million (50 million baht) tournament was held at Siam Country Club in Pattaya from May 6-9, with all 70 top female professional golfers staying at Avani Pattaya Resort during the event.
As the LPGA returned to Asia for the first time in 17 months, players successfully competed under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Sports Authority of Thailand’s pilot ‘Golf Bubble’ programme. The tournament was carried out under strict protocols that required all players, caddies, and tour staff to be tested prior, during and before exiting the golf tournament.
Prior to welcoming the delegation, Avani Pattaya Resort received full support and guidance from IMG, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Sports Authority of Thailand to ensure the property was fully compliant with internationally recognised Covid-19 protocols. To that end, the resort followed the operating procedures set out by the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) and Thailand’s Department of Disease Control (DDC).
Avani Pattaya Resort was able to focus on showcasing the timeless values of Thai hospitality by offering honest, fresh, locally-inspired food menus to creating a relaxing and safe environment for the players to return to after a day on the course. Avani Pattaya Resort was instrumental in conveying the message to the world that Thailand can successfully deliver a world-class sporting event with efficiency and controls while staying true to local traditions.
Thailand was triumphant on the course as well: Ariya Jutanugarn won by a shot to become the first Thai player to win the 15-year-old tournament.
Other Thais in the field included Ariya’s sister Moriya, Patty Tavatanakit, Jasmine Suwannapura, Pornanong Phatlum, and teenage sensation Atthaya Thitikul.
Among international stars were Danielle Kang from the USA, Sung Hyun Park from South Korea, Muni He from China, Japanese star Hinako Shibuno, Gaby Lopez from Mexico, and other top players from Asia, the US and Europe.
