His Majesty the King graciously designated HRH Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn as the royal representative to present the Royal Games Flame to Governor Apirak and the Games organising committee at the Sukhothai Palace.

The Royal Flame was ignited by the Bangkok Governor and passed to Siripong Puengyaem, the Kingdom's table tennis gold medallist from the previous Games in Coventry, England, last year.

The torch run will cover all 50 districts of Bangkok including Din Daeng, the final destination, and will be placed at the Thai-Japan Youth Welfare Centre on August 20, ready for the opening ceremony three days later.

"The Bangkok International Children's Games can be dubbed the Olympic Games for children. It's the most important sports competition for youngsters sanctioned by the International Olympic Committee [IOC]," said Apirak.

"However, it cannot be that great if a small number of spectators and fans take part in the competition. On this occasion, I would like to ask Bangkokians to give a warm welcome to all visitors and participants.

"With our excellent hospitality, I hope that Bangkok and Thailand alike will be greatly admired."

The Games will run from August 23-29 at several venues including the Hua Mark Sports Complex, Nimibutr Gymnasium and the Thai-Japan Youth Welfare Centre.

More than 2,400 young athletes from 39 countries are expected to compete in the one-week meet, contesting 10 sports.

Somporn Suphop

The Nation