THE Papua New Guinea Kickboxing Federation (PNGKBF) has already started its 30-member Squad Training Program last week in preparations for the upcoming world championships in Spain.
President and Team Manager of PNGKBF, Stanley Nandex, said he is impressed with the fighters who have shown much passion in the training which got started on a positive note.
He said the NCDC and Central based fighters have been very loyal to their attendance, though the federation has not secured any major sponsorship for the preparations, including their logistics and other cost factors involved.
“Our preparations and to compete in the world championships amongst the 75 plus countries is not an issue, our issue is the funding,” Nandex said.
He said the federation has already written to corporate companies including the Sports Minister through the CEO of PNG Sports Foundation but have not received any positive response as yet.
Nandex highlighted that the preparations towards the world championships in Spain have been a long journey.
He said the preparations took two and half years, with 300 fighters being screened to top 30 who are now on the squad.
“I think am ready to offer what has been put in over these years of preparations,” Nandex said.
“Last year, we attended the International and US Open Championship which was part of this preparation and we won 2 out of 3.
“Today am confident that the fighters will do their well if support is given on time.”
The president also highlighted other challenges that the federation is facing in preparation for the world championships.
“Our other challenges are the accommodation and flights because more than 75 countries are attending the event and we need to book our accommodation and flights early.”
Nadex said VISA is another issue which there is no Spain embassy here and its only in Manila Philippines and Sydney, Australia.
“In other order to obtain the visas, we all have to be there to go through the biometric process which is going to be hectic.
“Today as we all faces the financial challenges, I’m worried that all these efforts put in may not come reality.”
Despite these challenges, Nandex said the PNG Sports Foundation have been very supportive to assist in the preparations through its High-Performance Program and other logistics in the preparations.
He added that the federation is also preparing to host its CORPORATE DINNER FUNDRAISER which is set for November 6, 2024, at the Dynasty Restaurant, Vision City.
Nandex said the federation has invited Prime Minister James Marape as Guest of Honour to speak at the Corporate Dinner Fundraiser.
He said for more information, please do not hesitate to contact them on
74555662/72946725 or email, pngkickboxingfederation@gmail.com
Meanwhile, the 30-member squad are set to depart on November 11 via Manila, Philippines, to arrange their Spain Visas prior to travel to Spain.
The world championship is expected to commence on the 17th November 2024 with the registrations.
