THE Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), along with Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), yesterday launched its Under-16 Schoolboys tournament, set for tomorrow and Saturday at the National Gymnasium. During the launch, GBA president Steve Ninvalle disclosed that the competition is being held in celebration of Guyana’s Golden Jubilee of Independence and three Caribbean countries in St Lucia, Jamaica and Barbados are expected to participate.
According to Ninvalle a meeting among Caribbean boxing heads was held in Guyana last November and the decision was taken to host a Youth tournament which Guyana volunteered to host.
Ninvalle said, DDL through its Pepsi brand instantly jumped on the idea to expand their U-16 programme internationally, adding “This is the first time DDL will be participating with us on an international level.”
DDL Brand executive Larry Wills, making brief remarks said, “It’s something new for our local boxers in that more of them will get the opportunity to face off against international opponents and this will give them some more exposure.”
He contended that they are always in support of developmental tournaments that focus on youth and the development of youth.
Youth coach of the tournament, Seibert Blake commended the regional heads for deciding on the idea, saying, “It’s very integral to the development of boxing in Guyana. It’s the nursery stage and it’s good that we are able to put forward this initiative and keep it moving forward.”
Prior to the tournament, a number of local boxers were in training and were selected based on a three-week encampment period under the watchful eyes of Blake.
Those not selected for the international aspect of the tournament will take part in a domestic tournament that will run under the same banner, said Blake, as the GBA intends to ensure 100% participation of those encamped boxers.
GBA technical director Terrence Poole also echoed Blake’s comments, adding that these boxers are the future stars of Guyana at the 2020 and 2024 Olympics
The tournament also has on board Elaine’s Ville, COURTS Guyana Limited and Seon Bristol. (Stephan Sookram)