2005 sees the re-location of one of New Zealand’s leading Thai Boxing clubs to new premises. Sitnarong Thai Boxing has moved from the now demolished Cashel Chambers complex in central Christchurch, to bigger and better facilities at 70 Waltham Road, upstairs above Top Gun Paintball (the old Powerhouse Gym site).
Sitnarong mixed martial arts mat room
A feature of the move has been the addition to the clubs roster of Morganti Ju Jitsu, allowing the facility to offer training in either Muay Thai or Ju Jitsu five days a week. The Ju Jitsu club is taught by recently immigrated Brazilian National Featherweight Champion, Ricardo Barnabe (1st Dan) and is a mix of both traditional and Brazilian Ju Jitsu. This year, Ricardo will be offering his students the chance to compete in both Sport Ju Jitsu and Vale Tudo (no rules fighting). This will be an excellent opportunity for the sport to grow as a whole with the addition of a new competitor and style. Sitnarong Muay Thai is also looking to get more fighters back into the ring this year as the club has a strong history of producing top quality fighters and has some good prospects coming through the ranks.
CQB military style self defence is also being taught at the facility on Saturday afternoons by Christchurch depot instructor, Tim Wright. This is conducted separately from the other two styles and enquiries should be directed to Tim on 021 340 393.
The club has a fully padded 15m x 6m training mat, full weights gym, treadmill and its own resident, fully qualified personal trainer. In 2005 it hopes to secure sponsorship to pay for some new equipment and the re-installation of its 5m x 5m Boxing ring. This will mean the club will be able to offer in house and inter club competition in the most modern facilities and in the most realistic of environments.
Sitnarong mixed martial arts mat room and weights gym
Training times for Thai Boxing and Ju Jitsu are from 6pm weekdays and all classes offer a differing level of skill and fitness. Any enquiries for either club should be directed to Catherine on 021 623 814 or visit the Sitnarong website on www.sitnarong.com.
