Western Boxers arrive today
BY ROMULUS HUTA
A total of 20 spots are up for grabs in the national boxing training squad for 2019 Pacific Games in Samoa.
The spots will be filled out after the three-day national boxing trials that will begin in Honiara tomorrow night at Multipurpose Hall.
The event is organised by Solomon Islands Amateur Boxing Association (SIABA) with two provincial teams namely Choiseul and Western Provinces taking part, along with representatives from top clubs in Honiara.
Lauru had already in the capital on Sunday and boxers from Western Province are expected to arrive today.
SIABA President Patrick Morris said fighters will compete across 10 divisions from light fly weight to super heavy weight.
“We are trying to put together a team for the Games in Samoa next year.
“To avoid last minute preparation, we have decided to make this one happen this year. 2019 will be a busy year and it’s good that we have taken the initiative to hold the trials this week.
“We want a competitive team to represent us in Samoa next year.
“For the national training squad, we will be putting much emphasis on young talented boxers during our selection.
“Only winners and runner-ups will be drafted into the training squad,” Morris explained.
Morris outlined that weigh-ins and medical procedural checks will be held from 6am to 9am on Thursday morning.
“The draws for round one will be held straight after the weigh-ins.
“The official kick-off of the bouts will be at 6pm after a brief opening ceremony proposed for the day,” Morris said.
Female Boxers in Action
Morris added that four females are also taking part.
“Two bouts during the opening night will feature female boxers. This is the first time we are organising female bouts at the national level.
“Lauru has one female boxer, Western has one and two are from Honiara.”
Call for Public Support
Morris extends a call to members of the general public to come and support our boxers take to the ring on Thursday night.
“The three-day tournament is expected to be exciting and entertaining.
“If you have nothing to do on the evenings of this Thursday, Friday and Saturday, just simply make your way to Multipurpose Hall.”
