NCD out to retain crown

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The National, Monday June 24th, 2013

 TEAM NCD to the national boxing championship will be out to defend their title in Kokopo, East New Britain, next month.

Filtered with six reigning champions in Charles Keama (40kg), Junior Raka Kaoka (52kg), Henry Umings (64kg), Tom Boga (60kg), Chicko Emmanuel (64kg) and Charlie Kavo (75kg), Team NCD is looking solid to defend their crown.

The team will be coached by former Papua New Guinea champion, Jack Willie (pictured).

The boxing championship is from July 5-7. 

Senior boxer Junior Raga said the preparation had been good for the team. 

All the boxers, pending the confirmation of the flights, are ready to punch their way into the ring.

PNGABU tournament director Dick Larry yesterday confirmed that 18 boxing associations would take part. The most notable inclusion is the new province of Jiwaka, which will send a strong contingent.

Larry said Oro would make their return to the boxing ring courtesy of Governor Garry Juffa, while the Milne Bay boxing team, under former rugby league ironman John Pius Wagambie, would come in force.

Queensland-based AIBA referee Seru Vipi will conduct a refresher course for all referees before the tournament.

Larry said this would be the first time AIBA would be represented at the national boxing championships through Vipi.

“All the boxers are vying for a spot for the Pacific Games in 2015 and that was the reason that many associations have confirmed their participation,” he said.