Thai Golf Talent Dies After Lightning Hits During Round in Chachoengsao
Thai Golf Talent Dies After Lightning Hits During Round in Chachoengsao
BANGKOK, November 2, 2026 — A 15-year-old Thai junior golfer has died after being struck by lightning while playing golf in Chachoengsao province, with her mother announcing the tragic news on Facebook on November 2.
Aeyavarin “Aeya” Pradubyart was seriously injured during a storm in Don Ko Ka subdistrict, Bang Nam Priao district, on the evening of Sunday, November 1.
Aeya was a registered member of the Thai Sports Golf Association (TSGU) and had competed in several youth golf tournaments. Her death has brought an end to a promising junior sporting career.
Her mother, Natcha Izy Samitintu, shared several emotional messages on social media describing the family’s loss and their decision to say goodbye to their daughter.
“No parent can easily let their child go, but if it causes pain to the child we love, her father and mother will let go so that she can rest peacefully,” she wrote.
Her mother said Aeya’s heart had stopped following the lightning strike, but the teenager continued fighting for her life through the night as the family waited for her father to fly home to say a final goodbye.
“Sleep peacefully, my beloved child,” her mother wrote.
In another message, she described the family as “broken, shattered, with no pieces left”, apologising for being unable to respond to calls and messages while they dealt with their loss. She also said they would take Aeya home on November 2.
Promising young golfer with tournament success
Aeyavarin was listed as a member of the Thai Sports Golf Association and had participated in a number of junior golf competitions.
Among her achievements was winning the first Junior Asian Tour 2026 event, held at Rayong Green Valley Country Club in March.
She had also been listed to compete in several national youth golf tournaments throughout 2026 as part of her development in the sport.
Golfers urged to take lightning warnings seriously
The tragedy highlights the dangers of playing golf during thunderstorms, particularly on exposed courses.
Golfers are advised to stop playing immediately when thunderstorms approach, seek shelter in designated safe buildings or enclosed vehicles, and follow instructions from golf course staff.
Lightning can strike even before heavy rain arrives or after conditions appear to improve, making it important not to remain on exposed fairways during a storm.
