Boxing is a tough sport.
It is a statement that is hard to argue with after watching what fighters endure during preparation for their next opponent.
But the ‘Sweet Science’ is a prime example of a sport that has written countless rags to riches stories. It is a discipline that has also helped to reform many individuals, especially youths who are less privileged. Youths from the New Opportunity Corps (NOC) included.
During this weekend’s Andrew ‘Sixhead’ Lewis National Novices Championships, six pugilists from the NOC will get a chance to showcase their talent under the bright lights of the East Ruimveldt Community Centre.
And according to coach of those boxers Lawrence Kellman, he expects them to “give a good account of themselves.”
“They are motivated and their expectations are high”, Kellman told Stabroek Sport via telephone on Thursday. He added that the boxers are “eager to go after their competition.”
Kellman maintained that win or lose, the Simon Pures will come out victorious from the learning experience of competing in a controlled setting.
The Coach further noted that the boxers will fight in the divisions from bantamweight to middleweight. Selwyn Ramdeen, Omar Francis, Delon Isaacs, Akeem Pashur, Melvin Gibson and Shamal Giddings were named by Kellman as the boxers who will represent the NOC.
Several gyms namely last year’s champions Republican, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Forgotten Youth Foundation, Young Achievers, Pocket Rocket and others will take part in the event.
Bell Time is 19:00hrs nightly. (Emmerson Campbell)
