Thai Boxing

As we returned from our jungle trek yesterday, we saw a truck pass by with a loudspeaker and a man standing on it flaying his arms. We figured it was another one of those politico vehicles blaring propaganda as we have seen in Mexico but on closer inspection it was a Thai boxer promoting a championship bout scheduled for later that evening. We became very curious and decided to explore this unique aspect of Thai culture. And boy did it deliver. We arrived around 9pm and got great general admission seats in the stands about 30 ft from the ring. Yummy satay sticks are sold just outside the arena sort of like Chicago Dogs are back home. The first bout was between two very cute and serious looking kindergarteners. Bouts progress through preteens, young ladies, teenagers and finally sinewy, fit and frankly dangerous looking men. Each match begins with much pagentry, prayers and ritualized dancelike devotions. They play this crazy snake charmer/belly dancing kind of raga that intensifies with each round. The fights are an amazing display of physical fitness, prowess and psychological terrorism. The event seemed to be an event for all; foreigners, muslim women, lots of men, and teenagers checking each other out where they would be at the mall back home.