BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – Local Organising Committee chairman, Joyce Bowen has called on the business community to throw their support behind next month’s AIBA World International Women’s Boxing Championships.
The showpiece, the sixth edition of the event, is scheduled to run from September 9-19 and Bowen said that even with considerable assistance from government and the Barbados Olympic Association, more finance was needed.
She explained that due to the overwhelming response to the event, organisers had to revise their budget. The previous event in China in 2006 had representatives from 42 nations and this has been more than doubled this time around.
“Initially what started out as being a tournament expecting to attract just over 35 countries has now blossomed into one that has attracted participants from 85 countries numbering some 700 plus boxers and officials,” Bowen told local media.
“We are in need of volunteers, cash and expertise as well as support in an effort to make this happen.
“Whatever you are able to contribute will be welcome. Much more is needed and we are pleading for your support in an effort to make this event the success we know it will be.”
The Barbados government has injected BDS$2.5 million with the BOA adding another $200 000 but with the event a qualifier for the London 2012 Olympics, it had served to increase the subscription and as a result, the budget had still not been met.
Despite the unexpected shortfall, a purpose-built training facility has been constructed in Maxwell on the south coast of the island and was expected to be completed in time for the championships.
“It will feature four boxing rings and all the necessary training equipment for the athletes to train 24 hours a day,” Bowen revealed.
“It is located right onto the hotel where most of the athletes will be staying, so they can easily have access to train day or night at their leisure.”
