Noakes hits Cup gold

Westree boxer Sam Noakes stormed to victory at the Haringey Box Cup in London.

The 20-year-old (below) won three fights in as many days – all by unanimous decision – to land gold at the Alexandra Palace.

Lightwelterweight Noakes started his campaign against Ben ReesDavis ( British Army) on Friday.

He picked his shots beautifully against a tough opponent and Rees-Davis, who took a standing count in the last round, was so impressed he tipped Noakes to win the tournament.

Next, on Saturday, was Courtney Frimpong (Evolve ABC, Oxfordshire), a man Noakes beat four weeks ago. Frimpong improved his footwork but Noakes was still too good. That set up a final against Irishman Senan Kelly (Dublin U n i v e rs i t y ) o n unday. After an even fi rst round, the M aidstone boxer steepped on the gas, lannding some big rigght hands. Noakes woorked the head and body in an all-action final round which saw Kelly take a standing count. Trainer Lee Owen said: “I’m delighted for Sam because it’s a big tournament with hundreds of clubs and boxers from all over Europe. It was the first three-day competition he’s done.” Maidstone Invicta Rowing Club members enjoyed success at the Nottingham City Regatta. They’re now looking forward to the Henley Royal Regatta this weekend. Flora O’Brien and Katherine Windsor beat Gloucester RC and Nottingham City to win the 2,000m women’s pairs race in the W2 class, where rowers have only one oar each. The pair were at it again