New President wants Ulster Elites “to be treated as a special night” again
By Seamus Campbell
With the weigh-ins for the Ulster Elites just under a week away, it may be understandable if new Ulster Council President Kevin Duffy was giving all his attention and energy to the provinces main showpiece.
However, when Irish-boxing.com caught up with him at the end of a busy first day of the Ulster 9 County Novice Tournament, the Derry man showed his enthusiasm for all levels of Ulster boxing.
“We had 26 great contests today here in Craigavon with 24 finals down for decision tomorrow,” said Duffy.
“This weekend is for our novice boxers and we will give them all the attention and focus that they fully deserve, and when that’s all done and dusted we will move on to the Elites.”
The initial weigh-ins for the Ulster Elites will be held at various locations across the province on Sunday 12th November with the draw being made at 12pm at the White River Hotel, Toome.
The preliminary bouts will take place at the Dockers Club Belfast on Wednesday 15th November and Friday 17th November before a return to the Ulster Hall for the first time in six years for finals night on 24th November.
When discussing the championships standing and its return to its traditional home the new chief’s passion for the event was obvious.
“This is our blue ribbon event and deserves to be treated as a special night and held in a great venue. The entry is high with all weight classes expected to be contested.”
“The province’s top boxers will be on display, and they should enjoy the experience of competing in such a highly regarded competition in an iconic setting. They are following the path and sharing history with some of Ireland’s greatest ever boxers “
The added incentive of ticking another CWG team selection criteria box has drawn out the best of the provinces top flight amateurs, with Sean McComb, Alanna Nihell, Fearghus Quinn, Aidan Walsh, Conor Wallace, James McGivern, Dee Sullivan, Conor Quinn, Caoimhin Ferguson, Stevie McKenna, and Brett McGinty among those that confirmed to Irish-Boxing.com that they will be entering this month’s championship.
Although due to licensing law restrictions u-18s will not be able to attend the preliminary bouts at the Dockers. The council is keen to encourage boxing fans of all ages to attend the finals night and have worked hard to make the event accessible to all with ticket prices starting at £5 for U14s, £10 general admissions, and £15 for a ringside seat.
Tickets are available from Charlie Toland (+447972 154590) or Liam Corr (+447540269643).
