Fresh off officially receiving an Olympic Solidarity Scholarship from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) , boxing standout Keevin Allicock is back in the gym with a renewed vigor and focus as he readies himself to launch a new campaign for Olympic honours in the bantamweight division.
The top local Olympic prospect has his eyes on the big prize, stepping on the podium at next year’s Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan.
But in the meantime, the monthly Olympic Solidarity funding which is worth US$500, is a very welcome boost to the 21 year-old and will help to ensure he has access to the necessary training and preparation on his journey to Tokyo.
Allicock stated that the scholarship paves the way for him to be 100% focused on boxing. He is thankful to be a recipient and said the scholarship “means a lot” to him and he feels it is a “blessing” which will enable him to return from the Games with a medal.
Next year is a make or break year for the 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games silver medalist and he wants to leave no stone unturned in his quest to ensure that 2021 is a success.
The orthodox power-puncher, who is ranked 19th in the world in his division, said his aim was to make 2020 his year but could only helplessly watch as the coronavirus spread throughout the world.
He did not initially believe the IOC would postpone the Olympics and said he agrees with the decision in light of the circumstances. He said he will most likely turn professional after the 2021 Games, for which he still must officially qualify.
But qualification is practically a formality. An Olympic gold medal is still the goal.
