A very brief history.
The present......
As the world of combat sports ever evolves Thai Boxing is fighting for its identity against the popularity of the Mixed Martial Arts scene. Identified as the worlds most brutal and effective fighting form. Thai boxing is the vital ingredient in the make up of the best Mixed martial artists. But as a stand alone discipline thai boxing is becoming marginalised and diluted. Accordingly those clubs that have a proud history and tradition are finding it important to move with the times. Every day is a new day for Bradford Thai Boxing as it gains momentum as a force to be reckoned with.
The past......
The clubs rich history is also in truth the history of its founder, David Croft.
Searching for the one true fighting system David Croft boxed in the A.B.A's as a School Boy progressing into Martial Arts. First a Black Belt in Karate, then Lau'gar (Kungfu) Kick Boxing Black Sash before joining Master Sken in the late 80's
Bradford 'Sitnarong' Thai Boxing was formed in 1992 and operated directly under Master Sken's guidance until 2001.
Throughout his time at the helm running the club. David gave selflessly of his time and energys to develop his students and support them at the highest level. This success came at a high cost however; in both terms of Daves family and social life. Not to mention his finances. It was a growing pressure to divert his energy into his business interests and a desire to get back some of his invested time that made up his mind to try and hand over some control in the running of the gym. However; with all the best laid plans there are inherent difficulties. Not surprisingly Dave is still at the helm, still training champions of the future and still pushing his personal boundaries!
The future.......
That all depends upon the breed of fighters and students......
Early gym poster