Opening day of competition in Pattaya
PATTAYA — The atmosphere was electric at the beach resort in Pattaya as competition got underway in the FISU World University Muaythai Championship. With 98 student athletes from 23 countries in the fray, the first day’s schedule saw twelve bouts; three in the women’s divisions and nine in the men’s. Three-time World Champion Nili Block of Israel, who is also a psychology student at IDC University, put up a great display to win her first bout over Kazakh star Albina Kulbizekova, in the 60kg category.
In the men’s event, Simon Blancho took the first win of the tournament against Morocco. A student from University of Rennes Amorica, Blancho said, “It was a good fight. A strong and good opponent, and a good way to start the competition. It really shows the standard here. I hope to win gold now!”
Team Japan had two students in action today, with Hitachi Hyuma taking on one of the home team fighters, Pakorn Yodphaka, and of course that meant taking on the crowd too! There was raucous cheering from the crowds in Pattaya, which included not just the Thai locals but also many foreign guests.
The Opening Ceremony took place later in the day, with a spectacular display of traditional Thai dance and music, as well as a traditional version of Muaythai, which was a huge hit with the athletes.
Competition continues in Pattaya until 29 July and all the action can be caught live, right here!
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