Tralee Boxing Club has some new rising stars on the horizon after a fantastic  weekend of boxing in Cork.

The club had two wins out of two fights at last weekend’s third round of the John Mahon Tournament held in Northside Boxing Club in Cork City. A very successful tournament for the club overall, with a total of 3 golds and 2 silver medals from 5 finals.

First up, representing TBC was Adrianna Araiza, making her debut in competitive boxing. She faced a very game opponent from the home club, well known for its standard of boxers.

The Cork girl came forward non stop, threatening to overwhelm Adrianna from the first bell, but the Tralee boxer was quick to find her rhythm and remained extremely composed after getting the better of her first round nerves.

Adrianna’s skill and tenacity became apparent in the second round as she began to dominate with excellent straight punches, punishing her opponent who kept storming forward.

Superior fitness, a cool head under pressure, dogged determination, and good solid boxing by Adrianna led to a standing 8 count for the young Cork boxer in the third and a win by unanimous decision earning her a gold medal.

This hardworking, talented young boxer is one to watch for the future without a doubt, TBC coaches and trainers could not be any prouder to be a part of her boxing career.

Adrianna, it may be your first time being crowned champ, but it certainly won’t be your last. Keep up the great boxing you little star!

Next up for TBC, in only his second carded fight, was Joe Moriarty who faced a Trojan BC opponent from Listowel in a Kerry Derby final at 63kg.

It would be rare to find a boxer that works harder or is more dedicated to training than Joe. Never a corner cut or an easy road taken. The persistence and grit of this young man is recognised and respected by all the young boxers and coaches at the club, and this effort and positive attitude paid off well for Joe in Cork from the first bell.

For 3 rounds, Joe consistently out boxed and out worked a strong and hardy opponent, who was brave and dangerous to the end. Joe moved well, and scored good clean points, but was also well able to stand toe to toe and trade shots from time to time with a lad who knew he needed a knockout to win.

Joe however, refused to oblige, with some good defensive work and solid counter punching the win was all but a formality. The third and final gold medal of the tournament was in the bag.

Getting stronger and better with each passing week, there is nothing this phenomenal young man cannot do if he sets his mind to it.  We are proud to be on your team Joe.

Well done to the all the boxers who got into the ring representing Tralee Boxing Club this year, your hard work and bravery is something we are all so proud of here in the club. The courage and character you are building today will allow you to be the great leaders of tomorrow.

Kerry County Boxing Board hosted its annual awards presentation today in the KDYS in Tralee. The county’s most successful boxers were officially recognised on the day with trophies and medals and certificates being handed out.

The second leg of the Kerry v Limerick boxing tournament will take place in Sliabh Luachra on Sunday 4th December. Another great opportunity for our young boxers to test themselves in the ring, TBC would like to wish all competitors the very best of luck.

TBC has 3 boxers representing Kerry in the tournament, Jayden, Joe and Karim and the entire club is sending messages of support and good will this week as they make their final preparations. Good luck lads, you are a credit to your club and county.

Finally TBC would like to extend a warm welcome to our newest members and boxers who are joining us as part of the IABA LEAD Women 2  programme. Designed to encourage more women and girls to participate in our beautiful sport, the programme offers 6 weeks of free classes to introduce participants to the skills and many benefits of boxing.

Gains in fitness, strength, confidence, and a huge boost to physical and mental well-being are just some of the benefits our brave bunch of new female boxers can expect to enjoy over the coming weeks. Welcome to the club ladies, we are delighted to be part of your journey to discover just how strong you can be.

Anyone wishing to learn more, please check out our Facebook page, Tralee Boxing Club 22 to get in contact.