WITH Latin America powerhouses, Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic, set to participate in the fourth edition of the Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors tournament, scheduled for August, the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) will commence preparation for the event with an Under-16 competition next Sunday at the National Gymnasium.

Sunday’s competition is the first of several and preparation will include camps, run by AIBA Three Star coach Sebert Blake and Cuban Francisco Roldan.

The Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors tournament is scheduled for August 16-18 in Guyana and for the first time would see the two Spanish-speaking islands take part. GBA president Steve Ninvalle explained that Team Guyana will have to step up preparation if the locals are to retain the Caribbean title.

“The decision is to start early. We were able to withstand the English-speaking Caribbean before, but Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic are a different kettle of fish. Early, sustained and strategic preparation is expected to greatly help us in the quest,” Ninvalle said.

Over 30 boxers from around the country, including Shaquincy Wright of the Essequibo Gym and Richard Howard Jr. of Forgotten Youth Foundation, will be at the National Gymnasium for Sunday’s competition.

In addition, Alesha Jackman, nominated by GBA for the 2018 Junior Sportswoman-of-the-Year award is scheduled to take the ring.  Blake has been tasked with organising camps for the young pugilists.

The gyms expected to participate on Sunday are: Essequibo, Forgotten Youth Foundation, Harpy Eagles, Pocket Rocket, Ricola, Rose Hall Jammers and Young Achievers.

Fight-time is 18:00hrs.