Ireland had a successful start to the 2024 European U22 Championships in Sofia, Bulgaria, with three wins out of three bouts on the first day. The team dominated their opponents, showcasing their talent and skill in the ring.
In the first bout, 57kg Gavin Ryan faced off against Romania’s Iulian Eusebiu Tirzoman and secured a convincing victory with a score of 30:27; 30:27; 30:27; 30:27; 30:25. Following him, 71kg Bobbi Flood made his U22 debut against Turkey’s Cem Kaya and also claimed a unanimous decision win with judges scoring the bout 27:30; 27:30; 27:30; 27:30; 27:30. Later in the evening, 80kg James Whelan continued the winning streak for Ireland by defeating Barsican Polat from Turkey with a score of 27:30; 27:30; 27:30; 27:30; 27:30.
The Opening Ceremony of the tournament took place on the same day, with Ireland being represented by 57kg Niamh Fay and 92+kg Martin McDonagh as the Flag Bearers.
Moving on to Day Two of the competition, four more Team Ireland boxers entered the ring. 63kg Linda Desmond faced Turkey’s Esmanur Lok, while 75kg Josh Olaniyan took on Ukraine’s Dzhamal Kuliiev. Gavin Ryan returned for his second bout against Macedonia’s Alen Rustemovski, and Luke Hall opened his account against Bulgaria’s Rumen Rumenov.
The Irish team is well-represented across different weight categories, with boxers from various boxing clubs showcasing their talent. The support staff, including Team Manager Sean Crowley, Head Coach Eoin Puck, and Physiotherapist Ceire Smith, have been instrumental in preparing the team for the championships.
With a strong start and impressive performances from the Irish boxers, the team is looking forward to continuing their winning streak in the upcoming bouts. The finals of the tournament will take place on October 19th and 20th, where Team Ireland aims to secure more victories and make their mark on the European U22 Championships in Sofia.
