One of the reasons for Team Lakay’s success is the squad’s constant desire to add new weapons to their arsenal.
So when they partnered with one of Thailand’s top gyms and equipment manufacturers – Fairtex – they made sure the tie-up was more than just a sponsorship.
Spearheaded by the stable's head trainer Mark Sangiao, the band of world-class athletes made their way to Fairtex Training Center in Pattaya, Thailand for a four-day training camp where they honed their Muay Thai skills.
Joining Sangiao was reigning ONE Strawweight World Champion Joshua “The Passion” Pacio, Eduard “Landslide” Folayang, and Stephen Loman.
“They have a great training facility and of course their striking training is world class,” Folayang said.
“Right now I have a better understanding of their art. From their stance to how they approach their opponents. I get it all now – those little details on how to effectively use the knee, the elbows, and the clinch.
“If we can translate those learnings to MMA, it will be very effective.”
But the trip to Thailand served a purpose other than just training. Sangiao noted the importance of rest and recreation for the athletes who have had busy careers.
“We had a lot of purpose there. Aside from training, we also gave our World Champion, Joshua Pacio, some vacation. We got ourselves one as well,” Sangiao said.
“Then of course, we also observed their style, especially during training. They really have a world-class facility. On the business end, this trip also strengthened our relation with Fairtex.”
The trip turned out to be short but sweet for Team Lakay as they brought home knowledge, experience, and friendship from their four-day lay in the “Land of Smiles.”
More importantly, Folayang already feels better.
“I can use the experience that I’ve gained here to polish my offense, but the time there was very short. I might come back in the future,” Folayang said.
“I appreciate the generosity of the owner [Phillip Wong]. In this sport, in martial arts, we appreciate generosity, especially in knowledge.”