Kairuku to host Christmas tourney for boxers to stay fit

By MELTON PAIS
THE Kairiku Amateur Boxing Association will host a boxing tournament from Dec 26-30 which is expected to attract boxers from Port Moresby and throughout Kairuku-Hiri.
The tournament will be staged at Aipeana village in Mekeo.
Association president Andrew Magaiva said male and female boxers would compete in the 49-81kg and 48-75kg divisions respectively.
“Since the national boxing championships have been deferred to Jan 22, we are hosting this tournament to accommodate athletes who are looking to maintain their fitness,” Magaiva said.
“The purpose of the tournament is to help develop the sport and keep the boxing spirit alive.”
Magaiva, who is also the Papua New Guinea Boxing Union vice-president, said he was providing an avenue to keep boxers from Central, Gulf and the National Capital District fit while waiting for the national championships.
“But for the other centres, I convey my deepest apology to all the boxers in PNG for the inconvenience caused,” Magaiva said.
The president said he was expecting Pacific Games gold medallist Lui Magaiva to participate in the Christmas tournament.
“I am also expecting male elite boxers like Jonathan Kemau, Andrew Aisaga, Charles Kema, John Ume, Camilo Kavo, Joe Magaiva, Naime Miria, Bona Ainie and Peter Michael to take part,” Magaiva said.
“For the women, I’m expecting Elizabeth Waike, Celestine Aisa, Trisha Kele and Medlyn Kua to take part.”
Magaiva said boxers in each division would be identified for the national championships.
“PNG Boxing Association technical officials will be present during the tournament to do selections,” he said.
Magaiva said he could be contacted on 79928781 for more information.