Boxing champ crowned

Kristian Truelsen • Published 8 Apr 2010 09:00 0 Comments

HELENSBURGH can toast a Scottish youth boxing champion.

Martin Harkins, whose dad lives in the town, lifted the crown last month after porducing a sparkling display.

The 17-year-old defeated South Queensferry's Chris McHale, at the event in Coatbridge, in the light welterweight division.

But the win was made even more remarkable by the fact that it was only the 11th bout of his fledgling career.

And now Harkins is well on his way to following in the footsteps of his dad Robert who competed at Commonwealth title level 20 years ago.

Martin, who lives in Dumbarton and trains at the Osprey Gym, said: "I had hoped to be involved in the Scottish youth championships last year, but I was ruled out with flu.

"So it meant a lot to me and my trainer to take part in this year's event, and it was great to win the medal."

And his trainer Barry Winter is delighted with the progress of his young protege.

He told Sport Scene: "He did really well against Chris McHale.

"He has had around 50 fights and competed around Europe and Martin disposed of him reasonably comfortably.

"Martin is a good fighter who will go far in boxing.

"He is one of the best boys I have coming through and he is strong and dedicated."

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This article appeared in Helensburgh Advertiser 08 Apr 10

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