TCC Muay Thai fighters sizzle in National Championship

CEBU, Philippines — Team Cebu City’s Muay Thai fighters bagged five golds laced with four silvers and three bronze medals in the 2018 National Muay Thai Championship  over the weekend at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

Under the guidance of Muay Thai Association of the Philippines-Visayas head Master Benigno ‘Ekin’ R. Caniga Jr. and chief instructor Mary Ann Durado, the Cebuano kickboxers shone brightly with Andre Lanz Caniga, Allan Albindo, Mark Alforque, Simon Uchena and Buen Algono topping their respective classes.

Veteran mixed martial artist Roel Rosauro secured the silver medals together with Rel Velasco, Radel Dela Cerna and Yul Martinez.

The bronze medals were turned over by Raymond Berandoy, Jhon Simbahon and Marvin Felituna.

“I am really proud of your boys performance. Over 400 kickboxers all over the country participated the event and they all managed to get a podium finish. We are also thankful for Cebu City Sports Commission and sir Edward (Hayco) support,” said Master Ekin.”This success inspired me more to strengthen the kickboxing grassroots program. We want to bring the program in the barangay level to encourage more kids to practice the sport. We are aiming to develop more practitioners that we can send to local events like Batang Pinoy and PNG.”

The National Championship served as selection process for the members of the Philippine squad that will be competing  in various events next year.

Muay Thai caught the attention of Philippine sports officials after the International Olympic Committee announced that they are giving Muay Thai a provisional recognition as an Olympic sport. (BANAT NEWS)