The 7th International and Thai Martial Arts Games and Festival, held at Nimibutr National Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, from 17th to 22nd May, and the determined Sri Lankan national contingent had proven their excellence by winning 10 medals. Over 600 athletes from more than 50 countries competed for the glory in this prestigious world-class martial arts extravaganza.
This spectacular event brought together martial artists from around the world, showcasing disciplines such as Muay Thai, Krabi-Krabong, ancient Thai boxing, and a wide range of international martial arts forms. Apart from the international martial arts competitions, the organizers aimed to promote cultural exchange, foster international friendships, and highlight the value of martial arts as both a sport and a cultural treasure.
A 13-member national team took part in the competition, and after some thrilling fights and performances, they managed to clinch a total of 10 medals, including three Gold, four Silver, and three Bronze in Muay Thai and boxing events.
Apart from Sri Lankans, the fighters from Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, Brazil, the United Kingdom, the USA, France, Vietnam, Thailand, New Zealand, South Africa, Mongolia, India, Ireland, Italy, Cyprus, and Russia shared the major honors in the medal tally.
As per the WMBF, WMO, and UBF Sri Lanka Secretary General, this exceptional victory, which came amid numerous obstacles, is the testament of the expertise and the commitment of the coaching staff and the relentless effort of the athletes.
The National Director and Head Coach for WMBF (Muay Boran), WMO (Professional Muaythai), UBF (Boxing), and KMA (Kru Muaythai Association), Mr. Arjarn Dushantha Perera, has done a remarkable job of molding the young players by shaping their talents into a status where they can conquer international martial arts competitions.
He never forgot to give a special appreciation to the rest of the coaching staff, Nuwan Dhananjaya, Yasas Withanage, Chamil Nishantha, and Kumudu Prasanna, for their unwavering commitment, which laid the foundation for such an unbelievable victory.
Further, this event marked another milestone as Mr. Amaratunga Athapaththu selected to represent Sri Lanka in the capacity of an international referee.
Individual medallists – Sri Lanka team achievements:
Gold medals:
- A.A. Sahlan – Boxing, Under-16, 57kg category
- M.R.M. Shahal – Boxing, Under-14, 57kg category
- Sasen Kalubowila – Boxing, Under-18, 60kg category
Silver Medals:
- M.I.M. Imaan – Boxing, Under-14, 63.5kg category
- Yansilu Dinanjaya – Muaythai (Amateur), Under-18, 67kg category
- Tisara Anjana – Muaythai Pro-Am), Senior, 51kg category
- Sandesh Theekshana – Boxing, Senior, 91kg category
Bronze medals:
- Kumudu Prasanna – Muaythai (Professional), Senior, 63.5kg category
- Rusiru Ranganath – Muaythai (Amateur), Senior, 71kg category
- Chamath Rajapaksha – Muaythai (Amateur), Senior, 81kg category
