WMC and IFMA Team Congratulates Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan
The staff of the WMC and IFMA office attended the special celebrations in honour of the WMC Vice-President and IFMA President at the Sport Authority of Thailand. The reception was on the occasion to congratulate Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan on the Honourary Doctorate Degree in Sports Science granted by Chulalongkorn University in the name of H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of the Kingdom of Thailand. Muaythai has seen its rise under the Presidency of Dr. Sakchye; recognition by GAISF, the OCA, inclusion into SportAccord Combat Games, FISU, inclusion into the full programme of the World Games, and eventually recognition by the IOC. It is an honour for the entire WMC and IFMA community, and testament to the hard work over the last 15 years towards taking muaythai to the highest sports recognition.
Numerous dignitaries of Thai sport, culture and politics arrived to show the WMC Vice-President and IFMA President their respect, and the SAT hall turned into a greenhouse from the countless flower baskets and gifts.
The programme began with a video biography of Dr. Sakchye’s career in sport, documenting his many positions held in the Thai Olympic system, and world sport bodies. It was followed by some beautiful cultural performances and of course an electrifying Muay Boran demonstration both accompanied by live traditional Thai music played for the guests.
The IFMA Sports Director Charissa Tynan made a heartfelt speech to the audience recollecting the notable achievements IFMA made under Dr Sakchye’s leadership. Mrs. Tynan passed the limelight to WMC Vice-President and IFMA Secretary General Mr. Stephan Fox who sent a video message since his travels kept him from attending on the day.
IFMA is proud to be led by Dr. Sakchye, and the muaythai world thanks the WMC Vice-President and IFMA President for the opportunity to be present at so many sports forums under his leadership. It has been the dream and vision Dr. Sakchye has had with him throughout the years.
