Bulolo expects over 60 boxers

MORE than 60 competitors are expected to attend the national boxing championships which will be held in Bulolo, Morobe, from tomorrow to Saturday, according to an official.
Tournament director Dick Larry told The National yesterday that the boxers would represent 18 boxing associations that had confirmed their participation.
He said each association would be required to field a men’s and women’s team of boxers.
“The boxing associations that have confirmed to participate are Mt Hagen, Goroka, Enga, Chimbu and Kainantu – that’s from the Highlands,” Larry said.
“For Mamose, we have Vanimo, Aitape, Wewak, Lae and hosts Bulolo.
“We have Buka and Namatanai for the New Guinea Islands.
“For Southern, we have Misima, Alotau, Northern, Mekeo, Kairuku, the National Capital District (NCD) and Hiri.
“It will be a bigger turnout compared with last year.
“The tournament will provide great exposure for a lot boxers in the country.”
Larry said the tournament would feature some representative boxers.
He said the event would provide an opportunity for rural boxers to gain experience.
“Representative boxers like John Ume and a few others will be part of the NCD side.
“So it will be interesting to see unknown boxers face the experienced ones.
“It’s all about exposure and we are looking forward to it.”
Larry thanked their sponsors for making the tournament possible.
“We appreciate the support of the National Gaming Control Board, PNG Olympic Committee, Lae Biscuit Company and Zenag,” he said. “We want to see more support for boxing.”
Meanwhile, Larry said the tournament would be used to select a national side for the upcoming Commonwealth Games and Pacific Mini Games.