IFMA at the United through Sports Festival
IFMA, has enjoyed a tremendous legacy following its involvement in the inaugural United Through Sports Festival at SportAccord in Bangkok last year, according to the Federation’s Sport Director, Charissa Tynan. The success of the Festival ensured its return in Gold Coast this year, giving many youngsters and disadvantaged and displaced children the opportunity to try various sports. Reflecting on last year’s Festival at SportAccord, which took place in the IFMA’s home city, Tynan told The Daily that the “legacy it left behind, especially for those in need”, was outstanding. “Over the past 12 months, following the Festival, sports equipment and recreational facilities have been established, while new events have been organised,” Tynan said. There have been encouraging developments for the sport worldwide, including the first IFMA World Championships on the Pan-American content, with the 2018 edition taking place in Cancun, Mexico, where gender parity was achieved in the elite level of competition. Moreover, engaging new generations continues to be vital for the IFMA, with the recent Youth World Championships in Bangkok attracting 1,200-plus participants from 90 countries. This year, the IFMA will stage its Youth World Championships in Antalya, Turkey, with the Senior World Championships returning to Bangkok in honour of Thailand’s new King Rama X. “Respect plays a major part in the muaythai way of life,” Tynan said. “We will continue to promote and foster fair play, understanding that there will always be cheats, but the protection of the honest and clean athletes is our main priority. “At the same time, we believe in continuing to create opportunities, ensuring that muaythai can be practiced without discrimination and for people of all abilities. This has been the mantra for centuries and will continue for many more. The future of muaythai has only just begun.
Source: THE DAILY
