Boxers out to underline supremacy
Thailand Boxing Association president General Boonlert Kaewprasit is confident that the Kingdom will underline its supremacy by plundering seven gold medals in this month's SEA Games in Indonesia.
Thailand traditionally dominate the boxing competition in the regional sporting event and Boonlert expects the Thais to maintain their status at the 26th edition, from November 1122.
Athens Olympic gold medallist Manus Boonjumnong heads Thailand’s glittering sevenman list for the biennial tournament, with the country also fielding four female boxers.
Boonlert yesterday led the Thai fighters in handing over relief items to flood victims staying at the evacuation shelter at the Sports Authority of Thailand compound, before visiting the training camp.
“I appointed Sommai Kowkachaporn as manager of the SEA Games squad. He’s done his job very well thanks to his love and deep knowledge of sports.
“I will definitely be at ringside to lend my support in the final. I’m confident every Thai boxer has a chance of winning gold. We are confident they will meet the target of seven golds,” said Boonlert.
Returning to boxing after a threeyear hiatus, the 31yearold Manus, who claimed a silver medal in his last tournament at the Beijing Olympics, is raring to go.
“Despite three years out of the ring, I’m in good physical shape. I got everything back – punching and footwork. My weight is also not a problem anymore.
“After today’s training, I weighed in at 75.4kg – just 0.4kg over the middleweight limit. I’m ready for the SEA Games,” said the Ratchaburi native.
