Asian Boxing President Pichai Chunhavajira said the 2026 Asian Boxing U19 and U23 events in Jakarta are part of the journey of young Asian athletes to the Olympic stage.
"The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics may seem like a long way off, but in the world of the Olympics, the journey has already begun said Pichai Chunhavajira at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Asian Boxing U19 and U23 at the Basket Hall, Senayan.
He said boxing competitions are crucial for enhancing athletes' experience. Therefore, the Asian Boxing event provides an opportunity for young male and female Asian athletes to advance toward their ultimate goal of competing on the world's largest multi-sport stage, the Olympics.
Pichai said the Asian Boxing Championships were part of a pathway being built, allowing talented Asian boxers to progress from youth champions to world-class athletes at the Olympics.
"We are committed to creating opportunities for our athletes to develop, compete, and believe that their Olympic dreams can come true," he said.
He also urged the hundreds of athletes from more than 20 countries competing in the championship to compete with courage, strong determination, and confidence. He said every athlete must be ready to face challenges and never lose sight of their big dreams.
"The future of Asian boxing is standing in this ring today, and I am absolutely certain that many of you will one day inspire the world on the Olympic stage," he said.
Present at the event were Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir, Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan, Chairman of the Indonesian Boxing Association (Perbati) Ray Zulham Farras Nugraha and his staff as hosts, VIP guests and delegates, as well as athletes and officials from various participating countries.
