Up and coming pugilist, John Dowridge punched his way to the best boxer award yesterday when the first (of two) Pepsi/ Mike Parris under-16 tournament concluded at the Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis Gym.
After clinching a knockout victory against Isaiah Jacobs in their punch filled bout, the Harpy Eagles product gained the judges nod for the coveted trophy.
The crowd pleasing Dowrdige put on a dazzling display of attack and defense, counter punching his opponent to earn the victory in the 111-115-pound category.
However, Shaquancy Wright (64-69lbs) snared the trophy for the boxer with the most potential after out pointing Pocket Rocket’s Omar Pollard.
Orlan Rogers of the Pocket Rocket Gym however ensured that the club did not return to Linden empty handed. He snared the best coach accolade.
Back in the ring, Kevin Allicock, Henry Belgrave, Joshua Corbin and Quincy Boyce were also in the winners’ row yesterday.
The medalists, had the honor of receiving their spoils from Guyana’s lone Olympic medal winner, Mike Parris.
President of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Steve Ninvalle stated yesterday that the incident free competition was successful and that the level of under-16 boxing has improved tremendously.
The GBA head also heaped praises on the local conglomerate DDL for their continued support of the annual fixture.
“It would be remiss of us if we don’t thank DDL for their unwavering support and I honestly expect to see much better from the boxers in the next competition.”
Ninvalle also pointed out that the association will perhaps need to include the under-16 boxers in the Goodwill Tournaments to pit the young pugilists against others in the region.
Other sponsors included Harris Paints, Nigel’s Supermarket, Colors Boutique and Motor Racer, Andrew King.
Mark Drakes is set to receive a hamper from Nigel’s Supermarket after being voted the best referee/judge, while Leslie Marks will acquire footwear from Colors Boutique for being the youngest pugilist (11 years old) to compete.
The next U-16 tournament is slated for some time in December. (Emmerson Campbell)
