In an exclusive chat with espnstar.com, M H Abid talks about Muaythai’s National Games goal.

By Sudeer Mahavaadi

Muaythai - defined as sister of boxing is likely to be introuduced in the next National Games. Introduced for the first time in India during 1992-93 by the Hyderabadi M H Abid, who is also the secretary general of Martial Arts Federation of India, the sport has gained popularity in most parts of the country and they have Muaythai Associations in 24 States.

"Since 1996, Muaythai India (MTI), the Muay team, has been regularly participating in the world and International Muay meets and so far our athletes have won 42 medals, including gold," Abid said.

"Indian team has really been doing well at the international level. We have conducted 10 nationals so far and the response has been fantastic. The talks are already on with the Government officials and we hope we will have the sport included in the coming nationals at Jarkhand."

Abid further mentioned, "This is a kind of boxing, but more dangerous, as you can hit anywhere from toe to head, except the delicate parts. It also attracts huge crowds as there is a lot of excitement. Although protective equipments are used, injuries can not be avoided. And, that is what makes this sport more thrilling."

"Indian Olympic Association in their Annual General Assembly on December 21, 2006 granted recognition to Muaythai India (MTI) as the sole National Federation and since then we have left no stone unturned to take this first to the rural areas," Abid added.

"Our Muay athletes participated at the 1st Asian Indoor games held at Bangkok during 2005 and seven athletes won nine medals. During the second meet in November 2007, in Macau, our athletes won four medals. Now we are going to take part in an Olympic event in Thailand next week.

"We are also preparing for the 3rd Asian meet to be held in October in Vietnam and the 2010 World meet is also going to be very big for everyone.

"Three years ago we introduced Muay Boran, Aerobic Muaythai and Karbee Karbong in the country and Thai Grand masters have been giving special training to our Muay athletes," Abid said, adding that the maiden Asian Martial Arts Games are scheduled to be held from August 1 to 9 at Bangkok.

Muaythai India (MTI) has selected a group of five male and four female athletes, accompanied by two officials, to represent the country.