LEXINGTON, Ky. — One of Lexington's hidden talents shines inside a unique gym.
Her focus is laser-sharp and her feet are moving. Pink Boxing Her gloved hands follow each movement with a clear swing.
This is a byproduct of Piper Ramirez's passion to become a nationally ranked female boxer.
Ramirez's ability recently earned her a spot in the 2024 USA Boxing National Open, where she placed first in the women's 65-pound peewee division.
Ramirez is scheduled to have one more bout this summer in Wichita, Kansas, which could give him a chance to earn a spot on this year's Youth Olympic Boxing Team, where he could also compete in Thailand. said Guillermo, his father and co-owner of the gym. Ramirez.
Although Ramirez is young, he prepares for competition with a strict protein-driven diet and conditioning.
She trains with head coach Gerald Reed, a former boxer and co-owner of the House of Best Keep Secret Boxing Club.
Ramirez is one of dozens of young boxers at the Lexington gym. She is also one of four female boxers training at the gym.
Piper Ramirez, a nationally ranked boxer, trains at the House of Best Kept Secret Boxing Club in Lexington. (Spectrum News 1/Sabriel Metcalf)
Guillermo said Piper is a second-generation talent with a dedication that belies his age.
“I'm so proud of her. She's put in a lot of effort and put in a lot of work in and out of the classroom. It's well-deserved.”
Ramirez has competed in several national competitions, but said the challenge hasn't always been easy.
“I lost (the first game),” she said. I lost again. But then she started winning and became more confident. ”
Confident, her next goal is to bring the hardware home.
“I want another belt, but I don't have a trophy, so that's what I want right now,” she said.
House of Best Kept Secrets Boxing Club is one of the only boxing gyms in Lexington with two nationally ranked female boxers. Ramirez's big dream is to become an Olympic gold medalist, she said.
