Olympic medalist sets up training base at Uni
LOUGHBOROUGH has landed a knockout blow as heavyweight Olympic bronze medallist Frazer Clarke has chosen Loughborough University as his new training base.
Clarke will work with worldrenowned trainer Angel Fernandez at the Boxing Centre of Excellence as he embarks on a professional career in the sport following his podium finish at last summer’s Olympic Games in Tokyo.
The 30-year-old made headlines around the world by winning bronze for Team GB in Japan and will now train full-time on campus as he looks to take his boxing career to the next level.
Clarke said: “One of the massive parts of me coming to Loughborough was the opportunity to work under Angel again.
“We were in contact with each other around Christmas 2020 and I really enjoyed myself. Over that year, looking at the people and facilities at Loughborough I knew I wanted to be based here.
“It’s a huge inspiration to see other elite level athletes – such as Adam Peaty – putting the work in and achieving great things in sport.
“I want to improve as a fighter as that’s a must for anyone in boxing. Being here is an honour and I firmly believe Loughborough is the best in the world in terms of the facilities, athletes, and how dedicated everyone is.”
Jo Simpson, Commercial Director at Loughborough Sport added: “This is another landmark moment for our Boxing Centre of Excellence. It is testament to the work we have pioneered through commercialising our performance support that athletes of Frazer’s calibre are here at Loughborough.
“Our centre gives boxers access to the same elite-level strength and conditioning, nutrition, physiotherapy and performance analysis teams that have helped develop the world-leading athletes on our campus.
“For our students, it further develops the aspirational environment they are part of, with the centre allowing unique opportunities to work alongside world-class boxing talent.”
Clarke will make his professional debut on the Amir Khan vs Kell Brook undercard at the Manchester AO Arena on Saturday, February 19.