There is a lot of fun and friendship at muaythai events, but today the focus was on the competition with the first weigh-in and the Draw taking place. Now the athletes from each of the 23 countries know who they will face, starting tomorrow afternoon.
The organising committee have arranged a great set-up with a large marquee tent for the weigh-in with separate places as always for men and women. Each athlete receives a medical check on the day they will compete, and must also meet set weigh limits on each day. The IFMA medical committee has previously set out strict weight controls which every team including those preparing for this FISU event must adhere to.
Following the 7am check, the names of each athlete are entered into a draw which took place this afternoon. Every team manager attends and then the full brackets are sent out afterwards so the athletes can follow their progress, and predict who they may meet in the next round.
Tomorrow’s bouts already see some big names taking part including Israel’s Nili Block at 60kgs with 12 bouts altogether. The day is shorter than usual because the Opening Ceremony will take place, sure to be a spectacular event. Students from IPE University have been practicing displays of traditional Thai cultural dances and sword-play.
Full details of the programme and results can be viewed WUC Muaythai
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Watch the muaythai action live from Pattaya on IFMA Youtube.