Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Technical Director Terrence Poole, 60, has thrown the sports fraternity into mourning following his unexpected passing yesterday.
This was confirmed by an official release from the GBA, which stated, “The Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) mourns the loss of our Technical Director, Mr. Terrence Poole, MS, who passed suddenly on October 2nd, 2024. Mr. Poole’s immeasurable contributions to boxing span four decades as an athlete and subsequently a coach; his presence will surely be missed in the local and regional boxing fraternity. The GBA is grateful for Mr. Poole’s unwavering support and dedication to our sport. We extend sincerest commiserations to his wife, family, friends, and loved ones. May his soul rest in peace.”
According to reports, Poole complained of feeling unwell following the conclusion of his routine morning jog. He was subsequently rushed to the hospital following difficulty breathing and unfortunately passed away.
GBA President Steve Ninvalle said during an invited comment, “This is of course a massive shock to us, and also it’s a massive blow to the boxing fraternity in Guyana and the Caribbean. Terrence Poole was the backbone for and of boxing. Matter of fact, we would have only spoken the day before, and we were preparing to have him lead a team to the World Youth Championship in Montenegro. We are devastated as an executive and as a boxing association. He will be very hard to replace. Mr. Poole had a wealth of knowledge as it relates to boxing and the ins and outs, and we will find it very difficult to replace him.”
According to Ninvalle, “From a personal standpoint, Mr. Poole was someone who was very close to me. As a matter of fact, he was one of the reasons why I entered the administration of boxing. It is a very hard blow for me; the sport is down for an eight count. And to his wife, relatives, and family, we want to say heartfelt condolences. As a matter of fact, we have been receiving condolences from across the Caribbean and the globe, and that is just how far he was reached and touched persons.”
“The Guyana Boxing Association and the country have lost a brother, a friend, a mentor, a coach; he was so much rolled into one, and in my own personal capacity, we must and will find a way of honouring Mr. Terrence Anthony Poole. MS.”
Meanwhile, the Guyana Olympic Association has also expressed condolences at the passing of the boxing stalwart and administrator.
According to a press statement, “The Guyana Olympic Association extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and the entire sporting community on the passing of Terrence Poole MS, a revered and respected boxing coach who made an indelible mark on the sport in Guyana. Mr. Poole’s passion for the sport of boxing and his dedication to the development of athletes at all levels earned him the admiration and respect of all who had the privilege of working with him.”
The correspondence further said, “His contribution to boxing, both locally and internationally, has left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of athletes and resulted in him being recognised and honoured by the Government of Guyana when they bestowed him with the National Award of Medal of Service. We honour his memory, his commitment to excellence, and the countless lives he touched throughout his remarkable career. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
