Bernard recalled at brilliant night of boxing
THE name Bernard Dunne is one that is spoken with reverence in boxing gyms in Enniscorthy, across Wexford and indeed across the country.
The man from St Aidan’s Villas was the driving force of boxing in the town and further afield and was regarded as one of the finest boxing coaches there ever was, having manned the corner for the likes of the legendary Jim O’Sullivan.
It was therefore fitting that Bernard, who passed away in June of last year, was honoured in front of a packed crowd at a major boxing tournament in his hometown.
Bellefield GAA complex played host to the event which saw the best young fighters from Wales square off against the best young Irish fighters in some thrilling bouts. Attracting some great support on the night in particular were local fighters Nathan Brooks, Nathan Tyrrell, Logan Whelan, Jake Cox and Ryan Cullen and the atmosphere was electric as they took to the ring.
‘It was a fantastic crowd,’ said Frankie Kirwan of Sacre Coeur Boxing Club. ‘It was one of the best we’ve had in a long time. The event is organised by the IABA and there were a total of 13 fights between the Welsh and Irish champions. It came right down to the last fight on the night, but the Irish managed to win 7-6. The boxing was of a really high standard and lads came from all over the country to take part and attend.’
Midway through the evening’s bouts, MC Fintan Kelly invited the family of the legendary Bernard Dunne into the ring along with renowned fighters Jim O’Sullivan, Mark Wickham and Gussie Farrell and Frankie presented them with a special memorial plaque.
As a man who had such a profound sporting impact on the lives of youngsters in Wex- ford, it was a fitting setting for the presentation and no doubt Bernard will have been looking down cheering on every round.