International Wheelchair Basketball Tournament Pattaya Battle of Glory Cup Kicks Off in Thailand

International Wheelchair Basketball Tournament Pattaya Battle of Glory Cup Kicks Off in Thailand

In a historic moment for Thai sports, the International Wheelchair Basketball Tournament Pattaya Battle of Glory Cup opened its doors on September 21, 2023, at the Royal Thai Navy School in Bang Sare, Sattahip District, Chonburi Province. Mr. Komol Gambir, Chairman of Euro Creations, a leading importer of the renowned Technogym fitness equipment, presided over the event and emphasized the significance of this international basketball wheelchair competition.

This tournament marks the first-ever international wheelchair basketball event in Thailand and is a milestone for the country. The competition was graced by the presence of Rear Admiral Jirawat Aphiphatthayawong, the Commandant of the Royal Thai Navy School, Mr. Rungroj Chaiman, former Thai national wheelchair basketball player, and Dr. Kananakarn Sukkasem, among others. Notably, Russian Dance Academy Katyusha’s Ms. Natalia Aktseryeva and Mr. Alexey Kikaev from Virtus Thai played crucial roles in organizing the event, advocating for recreational opportunities for wheelchair users.

Wheelchair basketball is a globally popular sport, sharing many similarities with traditional basketball and utilizing the same set of rules. Thailand has been fostering opportunities for disabled individuals through various Para-sports disciplines, including archery, athletics, boccia, powerlifting, swimming, and wheelchair tennis.

This tournament is not just about training and competing for disabled athletes; it’s also a path to social integration through sports. It showcases the capabilities of disabled individuals, highlighting their strength, courage, and self-confidence. Sports play a vital role in the rehabilitation and empowerment of disabled people, serving as a powerful inspiration for them to thrive in life.

The International Wheelchair Basketball Tournament Pattaya Battle of Glory Cup, taking place from September 21 to 23, 2023, features six games involving teams from Thailand, Russia, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates. The first match kicks off at 1:00 PM, and the second at 4:00 PM, with live streaming available on YouTube (Thaiwheelchairs) and Facebook (Thammasat Leadership Program).

This tournament not only promotes wheelchair basketball but also symbolizes Thailand’s commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and showcasing the remarkable abilities of disabled athletes on the global stage.

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