U.S. Olympic Athlete Gives Badminton Lessons to Lao Students
(KPL) Over 200 students from various Vientiane-area high schools and youth organizations received a badminton lesson from U.S. Olympic badminton player Kham �Bob� Malaythong, during a daylong sports event sponsored by the U.S. Embassy in coordination with the Ministry of Education and Sports.
The event took place on Jan 3 at the Sports Field of the U.S. Embassy in Ban Watnak, Vientiane. Students who attended the event came from Sisatthanak Secondary School, Vientiane Secondary School, Phiawatt Secondary School, That Khao Secondary School, and Sathid Secondary School. Other participating organizations included the Vientiane Youth Center for Health and Development and the Peuan Mit Centre.
The event was officially opened by the Embassy�s Charge d'Affaires, Mr. Paul Mayer, and Mr. Phouvanh Vongsouthi, Deputy Director General of External Relations Department of Ministry of Education and Sports also Deputy Secretary General of National Olympic Committee of Laos.
Throughout the course of the day, the participating students received personalized, one-on-one instruction in badminton techniques from Bob Malaythong. Mr. Malaythong, who was born in Laos but emigrated to the U.S. as a child, represented the U.S. in 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
Mr. Malaythong also offered advice about how to train, stay motivated, and reach one�s goals. He also counseled the students about healthy living and urged them to avoid illegal drugs.
Some lucky students got to face Mr. Malaythong in a friendly badminton game. Those who were able to return his powerful serves received prizes.
The event took place on Jan 3 at the Sports Field of the U.S. Embassy in Ban Watnak, Vientiane. Students who attended the event came from Sisatthanak Secondary School, Vientiane Secondary School, Phiawatt Secondary School, That Khao Secondary School, and Sathid Secondary School. Other participating organizations included the Vientiane Youth Center for Health and Development and the Peuan Mit Centre.