Overwhelming elation and a sense of patriotism was felt by standout middleweight pugilist, Desmond Amsterdam after his promotion to Sergeant following his heroics at the American Boxing Confederation (AMBC) Elite Championships in Ecuador.
On March 28, the former Corporal in the Guyana Defence Force created history by becoming the first Guyanese boxer to cash in and medal at the event. Amsterdam finished with a bronze medal and earned $US2500.
Upon his return to duty, he was promoted for his heroics by Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Bess.
Said Amsterdam in a recent interview with Stabroek Sport, “It was a surprise but a great feeling to be recognized and promoted and it gives me the confidence to push myself and train harder.”
March 2022 marked an all-time high for the humble, hardworking boxing standout following an all-time low in March 2020 when the pandemic first hit, stranding him and other boxers in Cuba for 126 days where they had journeyed for an Olympic training stint.
Amsterdam’s bronze medal achievement which has qualified him for Commonwealth Games in the United Kingdom, is the silver lining behind the dark cloud which hovered over him and amateur boxing the past two years.
“It was a privilege to represent Guyana at the continental championships, I have to give thanks to God for that.”
Amsterdam who is nicknamed ‘Ammo’ stated that his podium finish has confirmed that he has the fire power to box with the best amateur fighters in the world.
“For me to medal at such a high quality event with Olympic and World Championship calibre athletes, I know I have the ability to compete with those guys and can be one of the best amateur boxers in the world.”
In conclusion, the soft spoken orthodox fighter thanked Bess, Director of Sport and President of the Guyana Boxing Association, Steve Ninvalle, his wife and coaches for their continued support.
