Golfer, 15, Was Struck by Lightning During Tournament. Her Dad Made It to the Hospital to Say Goodbye Before She Died

A tragedy unfolded during a youth golf tournament in Chachoengsao province, southern Thailand, when a 15-year-old girl lost her life following a lightning strike. Aeyavarin “Aeya” Pradubyart was competing in the event on the afternoon of November 1 when the lightning struck. The young golfer was taken to hospital immediately, and although her heartbeat was briefly restored, she succumbed to her injuries the following day.

Reports indicate that Aeya was playing in a group on the 11th hole when the incident occurred. At that time, a sudden shift in weather led to visible lightning strikes nearby. Witnesses noted that despite the dangerous conditions, the tournament continued until a particularly loud strike prompted officials to halt proceedings. Tragically, Aeya was later struck, suffering severe burns.

The family shared that Aeya was a promising golfer, having earned recognition and awards in previous competitions. Her mother, Natcha Izy Samitintu, was present at the course when the incidents began unfolding. She recounted seeing the lightning strike close to the course, raising her concerns about the safety of the tournament. However, many young players, including Aeya, remained engaged in the game until the tournament’s officials intervened.

Samitintu described her frantic rush to Aeya’s side upon learning of her daughter’s fate. By the time she reached Aeya, the teenager had already received initial medical attention and was being treated for her injuries. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, the young athlete remained in critical condition overnight. Aeya’s father, who was working abroad in Myanmar, managed to arrive at the hospital to say his goodbyes before she passed away on November 2.

The tragic event has prompted calls for better safety measures at golf tournaments. “May Aeya’s case be the first and the last of its kind involving a youth golfer,” Samitintu expressed in a heartfelt social media post. She urged golf courses and tournament officials to implement comprehensive safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.

In light of this heartbreaking loss, the wider golfing community has been left to grapple with the implications of this tragedy. Parents, coaches, and athletes alike are calling for a reevaluation of safety practices, especially during extreme weather conditions. There is a clear acknowledgment that measures must be established to protect young athletes engaged in outdoor sports.

The emotional impact of Aeya’s passing resonates deeply within her immediate family as well as the broader community. “No parent ever finds it easy to let go of their child,” Samitintu wrote. She referred to Aeya as “the bravest of all,” reflecting the love and pride she felt as a mother, as well as the profound sorrow of losing her daughter.

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather and the inherent risks involved in outdoor sports. As discussions around safety continue, there is a renewed sense of urgency to ensure the wellbeing of young athletes across the country. The hope is that no family will have to endure the heartbreak felt by the Pradubyart family in the future.

As the community mourns the loss of Aeya Pradubyart, her story stands as a call for change, urging greater responsibility in ensuring the safety of all participants in youth sports.