40 Years of Muay Thai in America
October 16, 2008
by Daniel Sullivan
The Inosanto Academy held the annual Teacher’s Day Celebration this year in honor of Ajarn Surachai Sirisute on Thursday October 16th, 2008. However, this year’s celebration was special for several reasons. Not only was it Ajarn Chai’s birthday as usual, but this year Ajarn Chai turned 60 years old. In addition, this is the 40th year that Ajarn Chai has been teaching Muay Thai in the USA and all over the world. Dan Inosanto and the Inosanto Academy presented Ajarn Chai with an award in recognition of his 40 years of teaching Muay Thai in the USA and put on a pretty good Birthday party too!
A sort of goodwill ambassador of Muay Thai, Ajarn Chai and his organization, The Thai Boxing Association USA has been bringing the art of Muay Thai to the world through his seminars and instructor certifications since 1968. Through his hard work and dedication, Muay Thai has gained popularity in America and all over the world. The Thai Boxing Association has satellite branches all over the world and thousands of instructors promoting the art of Muay Thai worldwide.
The sad part for all who have had the honor and good fortune to meet and train with Ajarn Chai is that this is the last year that Ajarn will be doing the international seminar circuit. Due to a knee injury and general exhaustion from 40 years of flying all over the world to teach Muay Thai, Ajarn has decided to retire. However, he will continue to hold the Oregon Camp now scheduled for July 23-27 2008 and a few seminars at select locations like the Inosanto Academy. On behalf of everyone who has benefited both physically and mentally from your knowledge, kindness, generosity and “tough love”, I want to say “Khob Kun Kap” (thank you) Ajarn Chai!
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