The 16th World Pencak Silat Championships took place at Saphan Hin Stadium, Phuket, Thailand, with two British fighters representing the UK. The Championships brought Pencak Silat to the land of Thai Boxing, attracting over 200 competitors from 33 countries. They were organised by the Pencak Silat Association of Thailand (PSAT) and sanctioned by PERSILAT.
Competition Report
Sean Kardar, current European Champion in Class B, faced Indonesia in the first round. Despite taking down his opponent twice in the opening minute, the takedowns were disallowed. Sean fought well but lost on points — an early exit for one of Britain's most decorated pesilat.
Samir Ghanim, current European Champion in the Open Weight category, drew Singapore in the first round. With a skilled and controlled performance, Samir beat his experienced opponent, then overcame Thailand with relentless takedowns to reach the semi-final. He beat Malaysia strategically to advance to the final.
The final saw Samir face Vietnam — a highly skilled professional athlete. It was a challenging match, and Samir did not win, but his Silver Medal was the highest level ever achieved by a British pesilat at a World Championships at that time.