BOXING – Boxers from around the GCC will take a jab today against some of the best the region has to offer with an open-air tournament at the Dilmun Club in Janabiyah.
The Open Air Boxing Event will feature a number of boxers from Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, who will be looking to showcase their skills in front of what is expected to be a bumper crowd. This will be the fifth edition of the tournament, and third one to be held outdoors.
“About 1,200 people attended last year’s tournament, and we are expecting a similar turnout this year,” said Bahrain Olympic Boxing coach Tony Davis.
“Originally, we had boxers from Dubai and Qatar as well, but they pulled out due to unfavourable weather conditions.
“Despite that, we have a good line-up of talented boxers, who are ready to entertain and put on a show for spectators.”
According to Davis, the tournament will act as a preparatory one before Bahrain crowns its first ever National Boxing Champion next month at the Isa Town Sports City from June 10 to 13.
“We have arranged the bouts according to age and experience,” said Davis.
“It will give the boxers, especially Bahrainis, a good runout before next month, when Bahrainis will be aiming to call themselves the first ever national champion.
“They can box in a relaxed and friendly environment, and just get themselves familiar with the ring before the big one next month.”
Davis said there will be no prize money for the winners of tonight’s bout, as it will be all about the love of the sport. However, medals will be handed out to participants.
He also stated that this tournament will be a great opportunity for coaches, judges and referees to gain some experience.
Courses for referees and judges are being run alongside the tournament to give them the opportunity to be officially certified for another upcoming major tournament in the kingdom – the International School Sports Federation Gymnasiade 2024, which will be held from October 23 to 31.
“Those who pass the course will be given a one-star certification, which is the minimum requirement to qualify for the gymnasiade,” said Davis.
“There will be some great youth-level talent on show between the ages of 16 to 18, so tonight’s tournament will be a great opportunity for not just the boxers, but also the officials.
“The sport is growing in popularity in Bahrain, and the kingdom has some really good boxers.
“We’ve been told that boxers from Saudi are looking forward to coming here because they heard how good Bahrainis can be.”
Doors open at the Dilmun Club at 2pm. The event officially kicks off at 4pm, and the first bout is scheduled for 5pm. There will be an after-party following the end of the tournament at around 10pm.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
&uuid=(email))