Happy Birthday Astana
The world of Muaythai has many fond memories of Kazakhstan as in 2003 the first IFMA World championship outside of Thailand was held in this beautiful country. The capital city Astana was then only 5 years old and now 15 years later has become one of the most striving cites in the world just completing the World Expo which was held as one of the best venues in Kazakhstan.Two birthdays were celebrated at this special IFMA event, the birthday of the city and the birthday of Mr. Karim Massimov, the Asian muaythai President, the IFMA Vice President and also the President of the Kazakhstan Muaythai Federation.
Many high profile personalities came to the event to celebrate including Kazakhstan Prime Minister Bakytzhan Sagintayev, Kazakhstan Sport Minister Arystanbek Mukhamediuly, the CEO of the National Olympic Committee of Kazakhstan and many others.
The world of sport was represented by GAISF Vice President and AIMS President Stephan Fox who is also the WMC Vice President and General Secretary of IFMA and Julia Govinden the CEO of Sportability and also the driving force of United Through Sport.
Many meetings took place including the NOC, the Ministry of Sport and then it was showtime. A special presentation took place between the highest delegates in Kazakhstan exchanging gifts and respect between the Kazakhstan government WMC, IFMA, and UTS.
The Mayor of Astana delivered the opening speech followed by IFMA General Secretary Mr Fox and Julia Govinden on behalf of United Through Sport the Ambassador of Thailand and Kazakhstan who sent his well wishes on behalf of the Royal Thai Government The opening of the show was a led Muay Boran team flown in by the Royal Thai Government to promote the ancient art and the kingdoms happy birthday wishes.
A special thank you must go to Fahart Amankulov IFMA Executive Board member for his hard work and dedication in promoting Muaythai.
