Golden Cobra makes return to the competitive stage

GOLDEN Cobra Boxing Club has made a return to competition for the first time since club founder Paddy Hyland sadly passed away in 2015.

Now under the guidance of Paddy’s sons Eddie, Patrick and Paul along with their uncle Paul Hyland and friend Aodh Carlyle, the club weighed in no less than 11 boxers for the Dublin Leagues on Saturday.

Of the 11 boxers (who range from 11-years-old up to 16) representing the Tallaght club, just three of them, namely Jamie Hartman, Sean Flood and Ardo Ott have Dublin League experience.

Speaking about the club’s return to Irish boxing’s competitive circuit, coach Eddie Hyland said “It’s going to be weird hearing Golden Cobra announced back in competition in the Stadium again.

“And to have the crest back on the shorts and singlets, and just to have Golden Cobra back on the programs as well, it’s very  special for me and my  brothers, my uncle Paul  and Aodh.

“Aodh’s son [Aodh jnr] is actually representing the club.

His first fight will be in the leagues.

“We also have Gavin Bardan there, a new volunteer with us.

He’s been with us for about two years” he told The Echo

Having moved to Cookstown in Tallaght, Cobra now caters for some 80 boxers.

“We’re out the door at the moment” said Eddie.

“We have three classes for children 7-10, older kids 11-16 and adults.

And the amount of kids we have in the club with special needs is unreal.

“It’s amazing. The minute the name Golden Cobra came back, the amount of people who have been enquiring and wanting their kids to join the club is unbelievable.

“I think we’re doing my dad proud” he  smiled.