A special meeting was held at the Four Wings Hotel in Bangkok for the upcoming ‘Muaythai Towards IOC’ event. The meeting was chaired by H.E. General Pichitr Kullavanijaya, Privy Councillor to His Majesty the King, and at the main table, there were dignitaries such as Dr. Nat Indrapana, IOC Member for Thailand, General Chetta Thanajaro, President of the WMC, Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan, President of IFMA, Admiral Surawut Maharom, Advisor to Educational Funds for the Sports Executive Committee, and representing the international muaythai community, Stephan Fox. Over eighty people from all Thai Government departments came together showing unity in preparation for the historic event which will take place April 3rd.
H.E. General Pichitr Kullavanijaya made a moving speech about the history or muaythai and its ancient traditions, stating that he feels proud, as a Thai, that muaythai has truly gained international
recognition. The fact that so many sporting dignitaries, such as Mr. Verbruggen and Mr. Froehlich, are travelling to Bangkok, shows the support of the international community. As muaythai already has the honour of a place in SportAccord, Dr. Nat Indrapana clearly stated the necessity of ensuring that all requirements are in place for muaythai and IFMA to earn recognition from the IOC. General Chetta Thanajaro, President of the WMC, the world organization for all aspects of muaythai, said that this campaign must be a national agenda for Thailand, and that he is very happy that all government departments, plus the National Olympic Committee of Thailand, are all working together with the international muaythai community to ensure the success of the application.
The President of IFMA, Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan, made a detailed presentation on the roadmap towards the IOC, and also spoke on behalf of the National Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage and IFMA, muaythai’s international federation, stating that 128 countries are working together for this goal under the same rules, regulations and guidelines. The vice-president of the WMC and IFMA general secretary, also made a presentation about the IOC requirements, noting that muaythai is a valued member of the international sports community, recognised by SportAcord in 2006, being fully WADA compliant, and detailing IFMA’s important youth development program.
Muaythai is ready for IOC. April 3rd will be history in the making.
