Serving a 16-year sentence for drug trafficking, Alexander Kreps is one of 190 inmates participating in The World Cup Behind Bars, organized by Thailand's Ministry of Justice to coincide with the actual World Cup about to kick off in South Africa.
At Bangkok's Klong Prem Central Prison, 16 teams of seven players will be battling on a muddy pitch, hoping to lift a World Cup replica trophy after the monthlong tournament.
The tournament ``is an opportunity for our foreign inmates to strengthen their physical and mental health,'' said Justice Minister Peerapan Salirathwipak. ``We want to help make it easier for them to reintegrate.''
``This is just not my day. But I sure as hell had great fun,'' said the 51-year-old Kreps, disappointed with the 1-1 draw. Authorities hope the event, which was staged during the last two World Cups, will also improve the image of Klong Prem, nicknamed the ``Bangkok Hilton'' by ex-prisoners who have described its notorious living conditions.
``Living conditions here are below standard'' for Westerners, said Stuart McLeod, 47, from Sydney, Australia. ``But we get used to it.'' McLeod is serving an 11-year sentence for manslaughter. Many of the prison's inmates are foreigners usually serving sentences for drug smuggling, fraud and murder.
A group of transvestite prisoners posed for journalists in front of flags and a World Cup logo hand-painted on a wall.
They were recruited as cheerleaders for the tournament, proud and wearing heavy makeup.
