THE Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) remains committed to international competition, a significant aspect evident in 2023, and this focus will persist in the upcoming year.

Two fighters, Joshua Thambaran from Rosehall Town Jammers Gym and Shakquain James from Forgotten Youth Foundation Gym, have been chosen to represent Guyana at the prestigious Youth World Boxing Cup in Budva, Montenegro, from March 3 to 11.

The event will take place at the Hotel Splendid Conference and Spa Resort, and Guyana will be represented by these pugilists, accompanied by technical officer and national coach Lennox Daniels.

In preparation for the tournament, a pre-tournament camp is scheduled to run from February 17 to March 3. The competition, conducted in accordance with IBA rules and regulations, will consist of 13 weight categories for men and 12 weight divisions for women. Male weight divisions range from 48kg to +92kg, while female weight divisions range from 48kg to +81kg. Eligibility is restricted to fighters born between 2006 and 2007.

Winners in each division will receive gold medals, with second and third-place finishers awarded silver and two bronze medals, respectively. Special recognition will also be given to the outstanding boxers as determined by the judges.

Steve Ninvalle, President of the GBA, emphasised the organization’s ongoing developmental efforts. He expressed the importance of building on the achievements of 2023 in the coming year to further enhance Guyana’s standing on the international stage.

Ninvalle highlighted the strength of the Youth World Boxing Cup, noting its reputation as the most formidable youth championship globally, attracting top-caliber opponents. He stressed the need for Guyana to embrace such challenges to continue evolving on the international scene and not be limited to regional dominance.