Thailand Concludes Basic Cycling Coach Training Program, Paving Way to Elevate Coaches to International Standards
Thailand has completed a five-day basic cycling coach training program led by a UCI-appointed American instructor, with plans to advance graduates to international-level certification starting in July 2025.
General Decha Mekhrachon, Vice President of the Asian Cycling Confederation (ACC), President of the Asian Cycling Federation (ACF), and President of the Thai Cycling Association, presided over the closing ceremony of the "Basic National Cycling Coach Development and Skill Enhancement Program" on May 17 at Wasithi City Hotel in Suphan Buri. Twenty representatives from member clubs completed the five-day training program (May 13-17), which was conducted by American professional mountain bike coach Robert Herber Jr., appointed by the International Cycling Union (UCI) for both theoretical and practical instruction.
After the closing ceremony, General Decha revealed that the Thai Cycling Association, in collaboration with Thailand's Sports Authority (SAT), organizes multiple training courses annually according to its personnel development strategy. The plan extends beyond developing elite athletes to encompassing comprehensive personnel development, including coaches, referees, and professional bicycle technicians, ensuring the association has knowledgeable and capable staff across all areas. These coaches will bring new knowledge to guide Thailand's cycling athletes toward international excellence.
"Coaches who complete the basic-level national cycling coach curriculum will have opportunities to advance to higher-level training and may specialize as road cycling coaches or mountain bike coaches," General Decha stated. "High-level trained coaches will be essential forces in developing new-generation cycling athletes for Thailand's national team and ensuring continuous success."
General Decha also announced the next course: the "International Professional Road Cycling Coach Development Training Program" scheduled for July 22-26, 2025, at Wasithi City Hotel in Suphan Buri. Fifteen coaches who have completed the basic training will be selected to participate.
Robert Herber Jr., the UCI instructor, noted that the curriculum aims to build foundational knowledge for new coaches with practical techniques applicable to various athlete types. He emphasized that each athlete differs in strengths, weaknesses, personality, and needs, so coaches must adapt their teaching methods and training plans accordingly. "Effective coaching requires patience, observation, communication, and proper planning," Herber explained. "I see that all participants are highly motivated to advance and show determination to become better coaches with positive impact on their athletes."
