12 hours ago
Jack triumphs for Louth's Tredagh Academy in Manchester Box Cup
This renowned event attracted elite talent from across Europe and the UK, with finals day broadcast live on Sky Sports, underlining the high calibre of competition.
Three boxers from Tredagh participated and delivered outstanding performances across multiple weight classes.
Darragh Smyth competed in the U18 category and faced a formidable opponent from St Mary's BC, Dublin, in the semi-final. Despite entering the ring with significantly less experience than the current Dublin champion, Darragh delivered a composed and courageous performance over three fiercely contested rounds.
The bout was a technical and tactical battle, with both boys landing some heavy shots, but the decision was a narrow split in favour of the Dublin boxer.
While the result did not go his way, Darragh showcased immense skill and determination, earning the respect of spectators and coaches alike, while his opponent went on to win the final with a first-round stoppage.
Patrick Lavery faced a strong English champion in the Senior Heavyweight semi-final. After an evenly contested first two rounds, Patrick elevated his performance in the final round, landing powerful backhand crosses and lead hooks.
However, the bout ended in another razor-thin split decision in favour of the English boxer.
Patrick's opponent would go on to win the final, further underlining the quality of Patrick's showing.
Jack Newman's tournament began with a semi-final match-up against a southpaw from England.
This contest was halted midway through the first round due to a medical retirement by his opponent, following several powerful exchanges where Jack demonstrated his signature punching power.
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In the final, Jack faced Cian Heaney of Celtic Eagles Boxing Club, Galway, who had defeated the local English champion in his semi-final.
The decider proved to be an electrifying encounter between two top-tier athletes.
From the opening bell Heaney pressed forward aggressively, only to be met with Jack's effective jab and pinpoint backhand counters. Despite an elbow to the back of the head resulting in an unexpected standing count against Jack, he recovered with poise and intensified his assault, exchanging heavy blows in a thrilling round.
Round two saw Jack dominate with accurate, high-tempo combinations, constantly breaking the Galway man's rhythm.
In the final round, both fighters traded in close quarters, but Jack's superior technique and fitness allowed him to edge the exchanges convincingly.
The Galway man also had some successes with his hard-hitting backhand in what was a truly epic battle, but ultimately the judges awarded Jack Newman a unanimous decision victory, crowning him Manchester International Box Cup Senior 80kg champion.
Tredagh Boxing Academy commends all three of their fighters for their discipline, sportsmanship and exceptional efforts.
Special thanks are extended to the families and supporters who travelled with the team, providing unwavering encouragement throughout the tournament.
Notably, all three boxers returned to training the day after arriving home – testament to their commitment and hunger for continued success.
The Tredagh junior team are in action next in July when 15 young guns travel to Manchester for the Junior International Box Cup to gain further international experience.
Tredagh Boxing Academy are always looking to recruit new talent and have classes for seven-year-olds right up to Senior level. Call 087-9944799 for further details.
