THE Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) has confirmed that a team of four promising young boxers, along with two experienced coaches, will represent the country at the upcoming Americas Boxing Confederation (AMBC) Elite Championships, scheduled for May 18–23 in Ecuador.
Leading the charge is rising female boxing star Abiola Jackman, who will compete in the Women’s 81kg division. At just 22 years old, Jackman is determined to etch her name in the history books by delivering a standout performance on South American soil.
Joining her on the international stage is 17-year-old Ken Harvey, a technically gifted and fearless fighter who will take part in the 60kg Youth Division.
Harvey has made a name for himself locally through dominant performances, and has already shown he can hold his own against top regional opponents. Now, he sets his sights on testing his skills at the elite continental level, with hopes of translating his recent success into a podium finish.
The Guyanese delegation also includes two other 17-year-olds; Joseph Jackson and Simeon Haymer. Jackson will step into the ring in the Youth 75kg class, while Haymer will compete in the Youth 67kg category.
Both young pugilists have been working tirelessly in the gym and are eager to make their mark in Ecuador.
Guiding the boxers through this crucial campaign are Coaches Lennox Daniels and Jeff Roberts, whose experience and mentorship will be vital in preparing the team for the high-calibre competition ahead.
“This is a young team, and their participation reflects our broader vision to expose Guyana’s best young boxing talents beyond the Caribbean,” said GBA President Steve Ninvalle.
Ninvalle highlighted that the selected boxers have not only demonstrated unwavering commitment to the GBA’s development programme over the years, but more importantly, they have proven themselves ready to step up to the demands of elite competition.
“It’s essential that our top young athletes are given the opportunity, from an early stage in their careers, to face world-class opponents. That’s how we shape their future and elevate the standard of boxing in Guyana,” Ninvalle explained.
He added, “One of the pillars of the GBA’s mission is to ensure that our athletes receive the exposure and experience they need to grow. And that kind of development can only happen when they compete at the highest levels.”
Ninvalle also expressed particular excitement about Abiola Jackman’s participation, noting that the world-rated boxer is not only a beacon of hope for women’s boxing in Guyana but also a symbol of what the country can achieve on the global stage.
“We’re especially looking forward to seeing Jackman test herself against the best in the AMBC. This Caribbean champion has the potential to be a trailblaser for female boxing in Guyana, and this tournament could be a major stepping stone in her career,” Ninvalle concluded.