Kaore returns to the ring following nine-year absence

By JAMIE HARO
PAPUA New Guinea’s 2015 Pacific Games gold medallist Debbie Kaore has made a return to the boxing ring after a nine-year absence.
Kaore was among 15 PNG boxers who made an appearance in the 2024 Kokoda Cup Challenge against Australian boxers from New South Wales and Victoria, held in Port Moresby to commemorate Anzac Day.
Despite losing her bout in a unanimous decision against New South Wales’ Emma Sue Greetree, Kaore said it was worthwhile stepping back into the ring.
“It’s been a while since I’ve gotten into the ring and I want to thank all the sponsors for coming on board and supporting this wonderful event,” she said.
Kaore, who switched to rugby 7s and represented PNG in World Rugby 7s series after the 2015 Pacific Games in Port Moresby, returned to the ring against a much tougher opponent facing Greetree in the women’s 75kg division.
Meanwhile, Greetree, who won bronze in the 2023 IBA Women’s World Championship in India last year, said it has been a great experience taking on her PNG opponent.
“It’s really great coming to PNG for this challenge, great experience hopefully get to come here in the next tournament,” Greetree said.
Meanwhile in other women’s bout, PNG’s Goli Bali defeated NSW’s Amirita Saluja in the 48kg category and 2019 Pacific Games gold medalist Flora Loga lost in a split decision to Victoria’s Julie Ramadan in the 57kg division.
Australia’s junior female champion Alexis Proctor won the 60kg division bout against Sophie Willie in the battle of the 17-year-olds.
2023 Pacific Games gold medalist Petronella Nokenoke did not have game time as her Victorian opponent Eve Bryson did not travel up to Port Moresby, while Natalie Dynon (NSW) defeated Leontine Kevin. Team Victoria claimed the 2024 Kokoda Challenge Cup with better results in the men’s and women’s divisions while the best female bout/fight was awarded to Ramadan in the women’s 57kg.