The International Amateur Boxing Association’s (AIBA) ???Road to Barbados’ Programme recently came in for high praise from its President, Dr. Ching-Kuo Wu.
Describing the intensive two-week programme, which was held before the 10-day women’s boxing championship, as "worthwhile", Dr. Wu said it had greatly assisted the participants. "The competition level was really high and they all benefitted from the programme. We saw many of the boxers from the emerging countries perform excellently after undergoing the intense training… and when they return to their homeland they will certainly continue their boxing career," he stated.
The ???Road to Barbados’ Programme started on August 23 and it afforded 45 boxers from 39 developing countries an opportunity to receive in-depth training from "top class coaches". More than 250 boxers from 65 countries participated in the tournament, which was held from September 9 to 18 at the Wildey Gymnasium.
Dr. Wu declared he was pleased with Barbados’ hosting of the championship, stating: "The level of competition and the quality of the boxers was the highest ever and we are very happy."
He also urged government to build on its experience and stage more tournaments, including regional and medium-sized ones. "[Barbados should] try to fully utilise the legacy we left here and take the opportunity to further develop this sport," Dr. Wu suggested.
The AIBA President also expressed the view that the island should strive to become the centre for boxing in the region and work on improving those areas which are under-developed. saustin@barbados.gov.bb