Eight Thai boxers from a Bramley gym played a pivotal role in helping Team England secure top honours at the WBC Amazing Muay Thai Festival in Bangkok. The athletes, representing Bad Company gym, were part of a 73-strong squad that competed at the prestigious global tournament, where England was named Team of the Tournament for the third time.
Team England's Triumph in Bangkok
Joint chief coaches Richard Smith and Lisa Houghton-Smith led the national team to victory, with judges awarding the title based on medal totals, individual performances, and the behaviour of athletes and supporters. Richard commented: "For the third time Team England emerged as Team of the Tournament. This was decided unanimously by five judges based on factors including medal tally, individual performances and the attitude and behaviour of the team and supporters."
He continued: "England got the highest number of golds but came second overall to the USA in the medals table. The US had almost double our number of competitors. They’re our biggest rivals. You need to experience these tournaments to know just how tough it can get. Lisa and I want to thank the other coaches and many parents who gave time, money and unconditional support to make this tournament so memorable."
Individual Success Stories from Bad Company
Seventeen-year-old Felicity Smith from Horsforth won a gold medal following a second-round stoppage in her final bout. She joined her older brothers Finlay and Fergus in securing gold medals at the five-day event. Charlie Bedford, 18, claimed a silver medal in his first international competition as an adult competitor.
Seventeen-year-old Zac Hasson secured a bronze medal, while 17-year-old Nathan Hodgson gained valuable international experience. Cain Sykes, 16, won a gold medal by stoppage after his opponent failed to answer a fourth count. Thirteen-year-old fighters Keevah Render and Cole Chapman also earned gold medals following impressive performances in their respective divisions.
Family Pride and Support
Keevah's mother, Jade, expressed her pride: "Our superstar Keevah listened intently to her coaches to achieve a well-deserved victory. Her hard work paid off. Keevah’s sister Harper was the youngest competitor and showed off her gold medal enthusiastically as for the second year running, she showcased skills in a demonstration bout against an American opponent. Everyone’s grateful to her coaches Lisa and Richard for their genuine care for all fighters. My daughters have enjoyed wonderful opportunities and gained amazing friends through this sport."
Growth of Muay Thai in England
The sport has experienced rapid growth across the country over recent years. Lisa added: "The Amazing Muay Thai Festival and English amateur Muay Thai in England have enjoyed phenomenal growth in recent years. We’ve loved being part of a journey which is a testament to the hard work and the heart of all involved. We took 32 athletes to Venice in 2023. The following year in Bangkok we were runners-up with 54 participants. 59 went to Verona last year. And this year 73."
Future Competitions and Opportunities
The gym is preparing to take a team to the European championships in Sardinia later this year. Fighters looking to join the next national squad will begin qualifications in October. Potential sponsors can contact Lisa Smith by email at lisabadco@gmail.com or text 07885 270267.
