Tokyo: Thai equestrian Chanokphorn Karunyathach, better known as "Preediyan," has made significant headlines after selling her renowned horse "Hope" for over 100 million baht. The decision to sell Hope came after the horse's impressive performance at the "Doha Tour 2026" in Qatar, where Preediyan and Hope successfully cleared all seven of the top 4-star and 5-star classes.
According to Thai News Agency, the sale of Hope, which attracted offers from world-class competitors, means that Preediyan will not participate in the World Championships set to take place in Germany. Instead, she will focus her efforts on preparing her other horse, "Tina," for the upcoming 20th Asian Games in Japan. Tina has a successful track record, having secured 4th place at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, and is set to compete in equestrian events in Tokyo.
Despite forfeiting her chance at the World Championships, Preediyan's decision to sell Hope was influenced by a substantial offer from Monaco athlete Anastasia, who sought Hope for the 2026 World Championships. Without Hope, Preediyan acknowledges she lacks a 5-star level horse for the competition but is channeling her efforts into her young horse "Jojo" (MaxWin Kinmar Royale) and Tina (MaxWin Kinmar Agalux).
Tina, having recently recovered from an injury, performed admirably at the Doha Tour 2026, achieving a double clear in the CSI5 150cm class. This performance is a promising sign for her participation in the Asian Games. Preediyan has also added a new 7-year-old stallion to her stable, acquired for 500,000 euros, approximately 18 million baht, indicating her commitment to future competitions.
Preediyan's strategic decisions and focus on the Asian Games underline her dedication to maintaining Thailand's prominence in international show jumping events.