Rungrawee kicked off Asian Games team
Taekwando Association of Thailand president Pimol Srivikorn confirmed yesterday the embattled Rungrawee Khurasa had been punished by being left out of the Asian Games team.
The martial arts exponent caused controversy last month by accusing national coach Choi Young-seuk of South Korea of physically assaulting her, and will not be making the trip to Incheon with the Thai athletes.
Although Rungrawee had apologised to the South Korean before the media, she must take responsibility for the ramifications of her actions, Pimol said,
“The incident occurred two weeks ago and she has already apologised. But there has been fall-out from this case and she must take responsibility,” said Pimol. Fifteen-year-old Isarin Taweeptawornwong has been called in to take the place of Rungrawee,
However the taekwondo chief said Rungrawee would still be welcome to join the national team for future tournaments, though Rungrawee has already announced her decision to quit the team.
“I would like to end my role as a national athlete at this point. But I still wish to compete in the national Games, club events or national championships,” said Rungrawee, who shrugged off the news of her Asian Games snub.
“I was prepared for it. As I’m not included in the Asian Games team, I can focus on my study,” said the Thai athlete, who is undergoing a Master’s degree in sports management.
