Braid boxer Corey lands fourth County Antrim title

Corey has been progressing at a steady pace securing his place into the more senior rank of the juvenile grade of the sport and on Thursday night, he defeated Dockers ABC’s John Doherty in a tactical bout in the Loughside Recreational Centre on Belfast’s Shore Road.

The 14-year-old Dunclug College pupil put in a very mature performance opting for a counter punching strategy. He remained patient throughput the bout and countered Doherty with blistering fast combinations.

Club coach John McLeister said: “Corey needed to step up to more challenging boxing bouts.

“This was the right time to do this and despite taking a calculated risk by adopting this tactic we knew his strength would fend off any attacks coming at him.

“We have been working on defence and counter-punching and this has paid off. Corey’s strength, speed and excellent footwork will make it difficult for anyone in his class.

“Training sessions and focus development sessions have helped and some quality sparring will undoubtedly develop his timing and co-ordination.

“Corey has been boxing with Braid ABC since the age of 10. He has won seven titles in the four years he has been competing.

“He has an excellent talent but we both know to progress to the next level and scoop that elusive Irish title he will need to put in some hard training and some quality sparring,” added McLeister.

Not to be outdone, some more of the Braid young guns will be out in force next weekend as the County Championships for the 11, 12 and 13 year olds commence.

Representing Braid will be 11 year old Ryan Lorimer and Paul O’Rawe; 12 year old Tyler McMullan and 13 year old Christopher Hagan who, between them, have already won five Ulster and two County Antrim novice titles this season.

Braid ABC are also looking ahead and already planning for their annual fight night which will be held in the Leighinmohr Hotel in April 27.