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Bracken boxers honoured

Thursday, 31 July 2008

MAYOR of Fingal, Cllr Michael O’Donovan, honoured two north county Dublin boxers for their exploits this season at a special ceremony in Swords on July 14.
Jason Mates (14) and Gerard Whitehouse (12), members of Bracken Boxing Club in Balbriggan, performed exceptionally well when proudly representing their club in the All-Ireland Boxing Championships this year.
Gerard won the overall title to claim Bracken’s first All-Ireland boxing title in 20 years, while Jason reached the All-Ireland final in his category where he was beaten by the Irish and European Champion.
Gerard has since gone on to represent his county and in doing so became the first Bracken boxer to achieve this honour.
Head coach Kieran O’Neill said he was very proud of the young boxers’ achievements.
“I’m absolutely delighted for the lads,” stated Mr O’Neill.
“The work, dedication and commitment given by the boys was second to none.
“We’ve waited a long time for an All-Ireland champion and we hope this is the start of a long line of champions to come out of Balbriggan.”
Meanwhile, Bracken Boxing Club continues to work hard to promote their sport and the town of Balbriggan, and the annual Viking Cup makes an important contribution to achieving both goals.
The tournament held in Balbriggan in April every year, sees boxers visiting from Scandinavia to compete against Bracken’s talented youngsters.
The club has worked hard to boost its membership over the last three years.
The implementation of the Kid Gloves Programme, aimed at children who have never boxed before and teaching them the basics of boxing, has been a major factor in increased participation levels at the club.
Niall McGuirk, sports development officer at Fingal County Council, also commended the club’s achievements.
“We’re very happy to be involved in promoting minority sports which boxing is considered to be,” said Mr McGuirk.
“Bracken Boxing Club has been working closely with our Council Sports Unit over the last couple of years to help develop their underage structure, and I must commend the club’s committee and coaches for the hard work and commitment shown to the young people of Balbriggan.
“They are a credit to both boxing and Balbriggan.”

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