and Driven by the drive to develop 'champion fighters', Team St. Lucia maintained their lead in the Caribbean Champion of Champions Boxing Tournament with two straight wins, as the tournament concluded here last weekend.
Seven countries competed in the tournament, which was held at the Vigy Sports Complex from April 12th to 13th.
As St. Lucia strives to develop young boxers, the team demonstrated remarkable levels of resilience, coordination and outstanding performances to rise to the top of the points table over experienced fighters from other teams.
Team Saint Lucia won a total of 9 gold medals and 11 silver medals, en route to an incredible victory.
In preparation for the tournament, more than 25 young boxers from gyms in Vieux Fort and Castries attended a preparatory camp organized by the Saint Lucia Boxing Federation (SLBF) over the Easter weekend.
Acknowledging that significant progress has been made in youth development programs in Trinidad, Guyana, Antigua, Martinique, Guadeloupe, Barbados, the Bahamas and Saint Lucia, SLBF President David “Sheikh” Christopher declared: Assembling young boxers for the next tournament, St. Lucia is excited to give young boys and girls the opportunity to compete and get ring time. ”
He called on local governments and the corporate sector to increase support for the national boxing program, saying it will help develop better citizens and potential champions.
Christopher praised the efforts of St. Lucia's young boxers and said this year's tournament was a great event.
“I saw a lot of young boxers who were 7, 8 and 9 years old competing in tournaments,” he said.
He highlighted the nine-year-old boxer's martial arts prowess, who won the title of “Best School Boy” boxing for his “punch strength, skill and movement.”
Christopher noted that despite his small stature, the young boxer played well.
“This shows boxing is getting where it wants to be… and the tournament was really great,” he added.
Guyana finished second overall in the Caribbean Champion of Champions Boxing Tournament despite leading a team that featured several first-time competitors.
Guyana was tied with Barbados on points for the silver medal spot, with each winning five gold medals, with the hosts finishing in first place. Martinique finished in the top four, with the two competing teams sharing the honors.
On the final night of the tournament, Guyana finished with three wins and one loss. Ryan Rodgers defeated Shane Brandon (Martinique) by referee stoppage in the second round.
Shaquan James forced a referee stoppage against Rayan Placid (Martinique) in the first round. Alisha Jackman won by default after her scheduled St. Lucia opponent did not enter the squared circle.
In the individual category, Guyanese boxer Ryan Rodgers won the Best Junior Male Award, while Abiola Jackman won the Best Elite Female Award. – Written by Reginald Andrew
