Pimol is the new Thai Olympic chief

Opponent Suchai's walkout mars poll

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Pimol Srivikorn became the new president of the National Olympic Committee of Thailand (NOCT) after winning yesterday's election marred by a walkout by rival candidate Suchai Pornchaisakudom.

The 61-year-old taekwondo chief emerged victorious to replace Gen Prawit Wongsuwon, securing the top job in Thai sports and ushering in a new era for the organisation.

He succeeded former Deputy Prime Minister Gen Prawit, whose reign as NOCT chief ended after his election defeat and subsequent loss of the presidency of the Thailand Aquatics Association last November, becoming the organisation’s eighth president and the first civilian in 60 years to be elected to the top office.

Pimol thanked sports associations for trusting him with the job.

"I will start working and help sports associations as much as I can. All the financial issues related to athletes' allowance, cash incentives for SEA Games medal winners will be addressed," he said.