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| CBC encouraging boxing resurgence |
Fred Sturrup
Guardian Columnist/Sales Executive
Published: Apr 26, 2012
The Commonwealth Boxing Council (CBC) is presently engaged in its yearly interim meeting, in London. A key item on the agenda is the zonal championships and the advancement of smaller nations in professional boxing. Two years ago, the proposal for zonal championships was discussed as a way to better motivate boxers from the respective Commonwealth areas. Jamaica and Guyana, propelled by interested promoters who bought into the concept, seized upon the development for advancement of their professional boxing programs. Zonal championships have been held in both countries. In Jamaica, there is added enthusiasm now for professional boxing because a “contender” series has been established to go along with the zonal championships. As a result, there is excitement in professional boxing in Jamaica such as has not been seen in a long time. Here in The Bahamas, while not getting fully into the act early like the promoters in Jamaica and Guyana, there has been encouraging movement on the part of locals. The promotional group associated with the Meacher Major camp has already staged a show. Champion Promotions, headed by former middleweight champion Elkeaner Saunders, with Jermain Mackey as the top-billed boxer, is preparing for its first boxing card. The CBC meanwhile continues to encourage its Caribbean family members. It is clear that the stronger the CBC areas, the bigger world presence the London-based organization can have. The British scene once led the world in professional boxing. Simon Block, the honorary secretary who anchors the Commonwealth program, has been over the years, of great help to smaller nations like The Bahamas. He has been an inspirational and motivating force behind the progress. The CBC covers a wide portion of the world, over 70 nations, 50-plus of which are pushing their boxing programs aggressively. With the creation of zonal championships and initiatives like the Jamaica contender series, Commonwealth boxing is indeed flourishing again. Hopefully, The Bahamas will become a major part of the rejuvenation process.
To respond to this column, kindly contact Fred Sturrup at sturrup1504@gmail.com |
