International Boxing Association Sets Sights on 1 Gold, 1 Silver at Asian Games – Announces 1 Million Baht Prize for Medalists
Thailand's Amateur Boxing Association targets one gold and one silver medal at the upcoming Asian Games in Japan, offering prize money up to 1 million baht for gold medalists despite facing stiff competition from over 40 countries.
Pichai Chunnawachir, president of the Thai Amateur Boxing Association, has set ambitious goals for the upcoming Asian Games in Japan, targeting one gold and one silver medal. Acknowledging the fierce competition from over 40 countries including India, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan, the association held its annual general meeting via video conference in Thonburi on April 30th to discuss preparation strategies and annual operations.
The Thai boxing team faces significant challenges with limited roster depth, particularly in heavyweight divisions. Key contenders include Punrawee Ruenros, who may need to move up in weight class due to her division not being featured at the Games, and Natsnicha Chongprongkiang, who needs to improve her recent performance. The association is also exploring adding a tall heavyweight boxer—standing 194 cm—currently in a weight-loss program aiming to drop from 150 kg to 130 kg.
Regarding concerns about boxing's absence from the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, association officials affirmed that World Boxing and the International Olympic Committee are working together on multiple tournaments and assured that boxing will definitely be included, leaving two years for countries to prepare their teams.
Additionally, Deputy President Police Colonel Phanurat Lukbun confirmed financial incentives for medalists at the Asian Games: 1,000,000 baht for gold, 500,000 baht for silver, and 300,000 baht for bronze.
