Local boxers capture National Elite Championship titles

By Stephen Leonard

LAST night was an unforgettable one for local boxers George Bates and Evan Metcalfe as they captured their respective National Elite Championship titles in the National Stadium.

For the first time in four attempts, St Mary's man Bates emerged victorious from a National Elite decider, beating 60kg opponent Francis Cleary of Ballina 5-0.

Crumlin lad Metcalfe, who was fighting under the wing of Hyland Boxing Academy, brought home the Men's 56kg title after taking a split decision against Thomas McCarthy of Setanta BC.

St Mary's-based boxer Kellie Harrington landed her eighth Elite title after seeing off Amy Broadhurst in the lightweight final while clubmate Aoife Burke picked up the Women's 75kg title by way of a walkover.