Site Meter

Friday, January 16, 2009

Boxing inmates fight to win their freedom from Thai prisons

Boxing inmates fight to win their freedom from Thai prisons


Thailand's prison bosses believe they may have a future Olympic gold medallist in their midst and are giving talented boxers from jails all over the country the chance to fight for their freedom
Picture: REUTERS

Two former prisoners have fought their way out of jail to earn a comfortable living from boxing and win medals on the global stage
Picture: REUTERS

Others are determined to follow their lead by earning a place on the national team, allowing them to go out and compete in regional events and be rewarded with early release on parole if they do well
Picture: REUTERS

Thonburi's pugilists are offered privileged treatment and are allowed to train while other inmates toil all day in kitchens, on-site garment factories and laundry rooms
Picture: REUTERS

They rise daily at 5.30 am for 90 minutes of jogging. Afternoons are spent weight-lifting and sparring under the watchful gaze of the wardens
Picture: REUTERS

Top sports officials in the Thai army have sent coaches to train the inmates...
Picture: REUTERS

...it is seen as the best incentive for them to get out of prison
Picture: REUTERS

No comments: