Story ofAll SaintsBoxing Club broughtto book

Former Newsletter journalist and boxing correspondent Denis O’Hara is the man responsible for the publication, which marks the golden jubilee of All Saints Boxing Club.

The book, which features a history of the Cushendall Road Club, along with contributions by great names from the past, was launched at All Saints Parish Centre.

It includes 37 chapters of memories of the people who have shaped the club’s fortunes, from Fr Alex Darragh, who founded the club back in 1961 right up to the modern day, as well as a fabulous reminiscence from one of the club’s most famous sons, Hollywood actor Liam Neeson.

Speaking at Friday night’s launch, All Saints chairman Matt Hamill said: “It’s a big occasion for the club to celebrate its 50th year in boxing and we’re still going from strength to strength.”

Archdeacon Kevin Donnelly paid tribute to the work which has gone into the club, stating: “There is a word that we are very much acquainted with in this Olympic year and that is ‘commitment’ and that really underlines everything to do with All Saints Boxing Club.

“We have seen through the years the commitment and dedication that the officials have put in, in training these young people in training these people and bringing them forward, while achieving quite a lot of success along the way.”

Alderman PJ McAvoy, who represented Ballymena Borough Council in the absence of Mayor, Councillor Hubert Nicholl, said: “The club is certainly something I can relate to. For the last 50 years, those of us who have lived in the town have all been part of it in one way or another.

“People have tried to facilitate the club and the fruits of their labours can be seen very much in the success that has been produced, right up to a world champion in Eamonn Loughran.

“I would like to thank Denis for collating the book and putting it together on a basis that everybody can relate to.”

Denis O’Hara, who spoke of his enjoyment in writing the book, said: “I hope it is a fitting tribute to a wonderful story – 50 years of boxing in the All Saints Club.”

Former world welterweight champion Eamonn Loughran spoke fondly of his formative years at the club, stating: “It was always great as a young boy hearing stories about the successes of boxers in the club and seeing the photos.”

The book is available locally now, priced at £15 in local bookshops; Diamond’s newsagents, Broughshane Street; from All Saints Boxing Club on weeknights; or from www.glendunpublishing.com