Since the foundation of WMC, young athletes have played a crucial role in the organization - today's juniors are tomorrow's champions!

Since 1997, there has been a youth development committee with responsibility for junior championships in the national and international tournaments.

        

Over a few years, this built up such a wealth of talent that by the year 2000, WMC welcomed the first junior bouts at the World Championships. This was a really exciting event both for the boxers and the audiences.

The story which everyone in Thailand remembers from that Championship is that of the young English athlete - James Gibson. His emotional tale made headlines in Thailand 's newspapers, magazines and even the TV shows. Aged 3, he underwent complicated heart surgery, at 5 doctors advised him to take up sport as a means to build up his muscles, strength and confidence. With such a background, his choice of sport may seem surprising but he fell in love with Muaythai. And finally here he was, at the age of 8 traveling to Thailand to participate in the World Championships. And what a Championships he had, taking on a talented Thai Junior in the finals! At the final bell, both boys received a 10 minute standing ovation from the packed stadium.

           

Young James made a heartfelt speech at the goodbye party; stating that Muaythai has given him strength both in mind and body, and that this fight was the proudest day of his life.

With this level of exposure, the interest by juniors surged before the next Championships.

The year 2002, saw 28 countries entering juniors in the World Championships - all of the highest quality and using all 8 Muaythai weapons in spectacular fashion. These 2006 Championships sees the growth continue.

It is a big commitment from a federation to send an 8 or 10 year old to represent their country, a commitment which is not lightly made. These boys are certainly aware of the responsibility on their shoulders and do their best to live up to all expectations. Naturally, in return for this level of commitment, WMC guarantees the strictest levels of safety rules with careful medical attention.

We are proud to say today that training centers around the world now have special junior classes - filled with young boxers excited to be part of an ancient tradition. We hope to teach them through the art of Muaythai (and especially Amateur Muaythai) that a healthy mind and a healthy body are the foundations of life!