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Description
Thailand has a rich variety of sports but none draw more crowds than Muay Thai, also known as Thai Boxing or Pahuyuth. This particular shot was taken in a stadium in Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand.

The event featured 7 bouts of 5 rounds each and the participants ranged from young children to teenagers. I was impressed with the way that they fearlessly approached the sport as well as the spiritual side of the match.

Before each match each of the participants performed the Wai Khru Ram Muay. This is essentially a dance of respect towards the other participant. The fighter first performs the Wai Khru, circling the ring three times before kneeling and bowing three times as a sign of respect to God and man. He also bows to Buddha to ask for protection for himself and his opponent and for an honourable fight.

Description
Thailand has a rich variety of sports but none draw more crowds than Muay Thai, also known as Thai Boxing or Pahuyuth. This particular shot was taken in a stadium in Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand.

The event featured 7 bouts of 5 rounds each and the participants ranged from young children to teenagers. I was impressed with the way that they fearlessly approached the sport as well as the spiritual side of the match.

Before each match each of the participants performed the Wai Khru Ram Muay. This is essentially a dance of respect towards the other participant. The fighter first performs the Wai Khru, circling the ring three times before kneeling and bowing three times as a sign of respect to God and man. He also bows to Buddha to ask for protection for himself and his opponent and for an honourable fight.