Three-time Yorkshire champion Kai has big ambitions in the ring
Local boxer Kai Fenton shone in his home show and celebrated winning an elite Yorkshire belt in his first outing as a senior amateur boxer, making him a three-time Yorkshire champion in his weight division.
“I started boxing just to keep fit for rugby and football but at 15 I realised I wanted to concentrate on it exclusively,” said Fenton.
“I train at Hebden Bridge Boxing club with my coach Cass sometimes even three times a day and I’m there up to six times a week for one to ones, plus strength and conditioning training as well as the obvious sparring.”
Eighteen-year-old Fenton lives with his family in Mytholmroyd and went to school there but is now an apprentice joiner. "My current amateur record is 24 fights with 15 wins including two by stoppage.
"The main highlights have been winning three Yorkshire titles, the Development title late in 2022, the Youth Elite belt last April and most recently this best achievement the Senior Elite belt.”
Hebden’s head coach Clayton Varey said: “Kai is an outstanding, dedicated athlete with a bright future as a professional boxer.
"He’s also a strong asset to the club and having completed England Boxing coaching courses he now coaches younger children for whom he’s a fitting role model.
"Our recent joint home show with Sowerby Bridge club was successful for both with 10 wins in 12 bouts.”
Kenton is optimistic and enthusiastic about his boxing ambition, saying: “I aim to become a professional and make this my life, hopefully winning titles, and championships, but only when my coach decides I’m ready. There’s no rush.
"This year I’ll be entering more regional tournaments and Box Cup competitions.”
Like all elite athletes Kenton will rely on sponsorship to reach his goals. He doesn’t currently have any sponsors so welcomes interest from any individuals or companies who can contact him on Facebook at Kai Fenton or via email at kaifenton1@icloud. com.
Those interested in further information about boxing sessions at local clubs should contact either Clayton Varey (Hebden Bridge) on 07818 234893 or Johnny Maude (Sowerby Bridge) on 07946 126796. Both clubs welcome juniors and seniors who want to box or just stay fit.