Boxers call for assistance to aid his C’wealth Games preparation
By Taromane Martin
BOXER Henry Kia says he needs more assistance in his preparation to represent the country at next month’s Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia.
Kia has been confirmed by the National Olympic Committee of Solomon Islands (NOCSI) to fight in the 60kg division at the games.
He told SunSPORTS over the weekend that although he is fit and ready to represent, he wants more training and support in order to be ready for the competitive level that awaits him at the Commonwealth Games.
“Now I feel confident because of the exposure I had in Gold Coast and Port Villa,” Kia who represented Solomon Islands at last year’s Pacific Mini Games in Vanuatu said.
“The Mini-Games was a really good experience for me. I was really prepared and fit for that competition. This will be my third tournament overseas and I have grown from the two experiences.
“I know what to expect at the games but right now my training is not enough. I know now why other fighters who represented our country get nervous at that level.
“For me I know there will be good fighters at that level but there is no difference because everyone can box.
“The outcome depends on me, my commitment to training and the support I get. The result in the ring, only I can determine,” he adds.
Kia who used to fight in the 64kg division said making the switch to 60kg was a bit difficult but now he is very comfortable in this weight class.
“I used to fight in the 64kg division but made the switch down to 60kg. Vanuatu was my first time to compete in this weight class.
“It was tough but now I’m really comfortable and confident competing in the 60kg.
“Currently I’m doing my own trainings and working on my fitness. But I really need help with my training as my coach is also a busy man.
“But anyway that is that. Fitness for me is not a problem. It’s the venue and facilities for me to use which is a problem.
“I mean I’m going to represent the country at the Commonwealth Games but still there is not a proper place to train yet,” he said.
Kia currently holds the record for the fastest TKO in the Honiara Amateur Boxing Association (HABA) fortnight fights after knocking out Jotham Naamoana of SOLMATIC boxing club, one minute-thirty seven seconds in the first round.
He fights for the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) boxing club.
