Gransbury is up for the fight as he takes a silver
JUNIOR BOXING
NATHAN GRANSBURY packed a punch at the National Development Finals in Liverpool - and came within a whisker of gold medal success, writes TONY HODGSON.
The youngster from Washington’s District Youth Amateur Boxing Club defeated an opponent from Liverpool in the competition’s semi-finals to give himself a fighting chance of glory.
In the final he faced Jon O’Donnell, a southpaw from Hooks Gym in London, in the 67-70kgs category.
Washington-based Gransbury, 16, put up a brave fight - only to lose a split decision and have to settle for a silver medal.
He said: “O’Donnell was a very tricky opponent and it was a very close bout which unfortunately went in favour of Jon.
“I will learn from the experience.
“Although I was disappointed I am still immensely proud to have won the silver medal.
“It is a great achievement not only for me but the coaches who have helped me.
“The support I had in preparation for the competition was a huge help - my employer Aldi let me have my weekends free to be able to compete.
“Now I have to prepare for my next bout at my club’s home show on November 23 at the Top Club in Washington.
“I am confident I will win that bout but take nothing for granted and will be training hard for it.”
District ABC’s head coach Michael Wilson said: “Nathan boxed brilliantly throughout the competition.
“I am so proud of his achievement representing the club and this success helps us to be recognised as a very good up-andcoming club.”
Brad Ward, 15, also represented District Youth ABC in the National semi-finals – but was beaten despite a brave performance.
Wilson added: “Brad was unlucky but it was a fair result.
“I am extremely proud of what both boxers achieved representing not only District Youth ABC but also the North East. We have had a busy year with this competition and also being accepted by Metro Radio Cash for Kids.
“We hope this will further strengthen us in the future and there is a lot of great talent coming through the ranks here.
“We would also like to say a special thanks to Pinpoint Recruitment, Sora Group and our main sponsor Washington Fireplaces for their support.”