#Sports

Boxing Association seeks availability of boxing arena

Jun 24, 2022, 2:39 PM | Article By: Jankey Ceesay

The Gambia National Boxing Association is seeking for the availability of a boxing arena in order to be able to host national and international tournaments.

Alasana Bah, President of the association said the availability of a boxing arena will help the association organise more events and reduce the burden of searching for a place to rent and beg to host events. 

He described boxing as an important sport that needs attention like any other sports, noting that it can contribute to national development.

“Boxing reduces crime, and peace is paramount to national development. It can shift youth focus from idling to being active in boxing gyms,” he said. 

He added that boxing also promotes health, helps alleviate poverty and reduce unemployment. 

“Boxers are paid to compete especially in international events. Many boxing champions are signing millions to compete at professional level and are able to make a good living for themselves and their countries,” he further said.

However, Mr. Bah said his association is faced with a lots of financial constraints, noting that in order for them to be able to send athletes to represent the country at international levels, there has to be money.

Boxing is a sport that involves two athletes fighting each other, trying to punch their opponent with padded gloves on their fists. Fights usually last 3-12 rounds with each round usually lasting three minutes.

Research has shown that several African countries like Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, among others have produced boxing champions that have represented them in the Olympics.