Cork boxers bring back more All-Ireland titles to the Rebel County

All-Ireland glory was achieved by three Cork boxers at the National Stadium recently.

Abby Murray, Muskerry BC, William Heaphy, Golden Gloves BC, and Claire Crowley, St Martha's BC were all crowned National Senior Cadet Champions.

Abby Murray delivered an exceptional performance at the National Stadium last Friday night, securing the 48 kg Cadet Irish boxing title, which represents a significant milestone in her boxing development. 

With this impressive win over Evlyn Spicer from Enniskerry Boxing Club, Murray not only gains national recognition, but also earns her spot on the Irish team selection that will compete in the European Boxing Championships in July, scheduled to take place in Serbia. 

This latest Irish title marks her third national title within a span of 14 months. 

Representing the Muskerry Boxing Club in Ballincollig, Murray's achievements highlight her technical skill and her unwavering determination to succeed.

Niall O'Driscoll, her clubmate, also attracted attention with his remarkable journey to the final. 

After winning three challenging bouts, Niall narrowly missed claiming the title, losing by a split decision in a match that could have easily gone in his favour. 

His journey to the final showcases the wealth of talent developed at Muskerry Boxing Club. 

The accomplishments of both athletes underscore the club`s rising reputation and impressive track record in recent years.

As Abby anticipates the opportunities that lie ahead and the possibility to represent Ireland in Serbia, both the club and the local community will watch with pride and eager anticipation for her continued success. 

While the dust settles, there was no time for rest for the Muskerry club, as they prepare to head to the Portimao Box Cup in Portugal. 

They will bring a team of ten boxers, both male and female, to a tournament they triumphed in last year. 

All these successes are a testament t the coaches, both past and present, who have dedicated their valuable experience and time to nurturing the young generations coming up.

The Golden Gloves Boxing Club based in Churchfield continues at a rapid pack to produce champions in all grades. 

However, in recent years they are enjoying the massive success the club has achieved in adult boxing.

National titles in senior novice, senior, and elite, have all been won on the trot and the conveyor belt continues with the latest success of William Heaphy winning the light heavy weight title at the Irish Senior Cadet championship. 

This is Heaphy's fifth Irish national success. 

His coach John Morrissey said this following his latest victory.

 “This is his second All-Ireland title this year and I believe he is another of our club's great prospects to bring further elite success to Golden Gloves and Cork boxing."

Claire Crowley from the St Martha`s club based in Carrigtwohill completed the hat-trick of success for Cork boxers at this year’s final night at the cadet championships. 

Claire gave a delightful display of first class boxing to convince the judges of her magnificent boxing skills, and ring craft. 

She displayed all the hallmarks of a seasoned and well-coached athlete and was accordingly declared the 65 kilos national cadet senior champion, following her victory over Ruby Cullen of Drimnagh.

This is Claire's second All-Ireland title this year, and her latest success was not only joy for the St Martha's club, but also for the Crowley family. This aspiring Cork senior athlete is coached by her father Kevin Crowley. 

Kevin is a very knowledgeable coach who goes about his coaching diligently and he is a man who is very well ired and respected in Cork boxing circles.

Meanwhile, the Taoiseach Micheal Martin has confirmed to the Cobh Boxing Club that he would be delighted to officially open their new club. 

This club, up to now were located in a smaller premises outside the town. 

The new home for this flourishing boxing club will be situated closer to the centre of the town and historic harbour town.

Club president Dave Quigley confirmed that the new facility will allow the club to expand and cater for over one hundred athletes who wish to participate competitively in the sport. 

Dave said this.

“Up to now our club has attracted huge numbers. 

"Nevertheless, we had to put many on a waiting list. Now this will all change.

"The committee decided it would be a great boost to the club the Taoiseach with his big boxing background would open our new club.

"We thought this would be a long shot, but the entire club was delighted when his office confirmed that he would to the honours on Saturday, 21st June, next a 11am.

Cobh has a long tradition with the sport going back to the Jack Doyle era, and the great link with the Navy Boxing Club, who have been in existence now for over 80 years. 

However, they participate only in the Defence Forces Championships. 

Many great names have been associated with great boxing events down through the years. 

One such name was the late and Legendary Albert McGroarty. 

Albert was known as a great ambassador for the sport throughout the Island of Ireland and he would have been well pleased to see the club now expanding.

Another stalwart of Cobh Boxing is John Hennessy. 

John will be a guest at the official opening. 

Over many generations John played a major role in the helping to foster and develop the sport in Cobh. 

In addition to this, John was also a member of the Cork ex-Boxers Association and served as the treasurer of the Cork County Boxing Board for a number of years.

Hennessy is a well-accomplished and decorated historian and on the same day as the official opening of the new club John will have a plaque to acknowledge his lifework as a historian erected in the town square.