Boxers battle way to Queensland titles

Toowoomba and Wyreema boxers win Queensland State Novice titles.

YOUNG CHAMPIONS: Celebrating their success at the Queensland State Novice Titles are boxers (from left) Darcy Long (28kg weight class), Darby Banks (46kg), Chance Dawes (60kg), Jordan Parkinson (60 and 63kg), Zoe Christodoulou (52kg) and Xavier Sowerby (36kg). Picture: JasonGibbs

BOXING: The next generation of Toowoomba boxers are making their mark on the state stage.

A host of young fighters from Wyreema's Aftershock Boxing and Toowoomba's PCYC boxing club returned from the Queensland State Novice Titles with big wins under their belts.

Competing in various weight classes and divisions six boxers in total bought home gold medals.

PCYC coach Mick Betros said it was a testament to the mental and physical strength of the young group.

"There's no margin for error at this level and there's no where to hide or rest in the ring,” Betros said.

"We do our best to prepare them physically and mentally but when the bell goes it's down to them.

"It can also be very daunting boxing away from home.

"We're all very proud of their efforts.”

Aftershock Boxing coach Jade Parkinson echoed Betros' comments.

"It's a great result for all of them,” he said.

"At the moment we've got four kids, three of them are now Novice winners and the fourth is second in the state.

"It takes a lot of dedication from them travelling long distances to spar and fight on top of all the training.

"All that's paid off for them now though - they really deserve this.”

Proud history: Boxing classes have been held at the Toowoomba PCYC since the 1970s. Classes run three nights a week (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday) from 5pm.

Originally published as Boxers battle way to Queensland titles