Manx for the memories say IoM boxers

Mrs. Georgie Blair, PRO of the Twinning Association, has received a letter from the Manx Amateur Boxing Club expressing thanks and gratitude for the hospitality shown to them during the visit.

Ballymoney Twinning Association’s counterparts on the Island were equally delighted with the reception accorded to them.

The letter to Mrs. Blair from the Secretary of the Manx ABC, Peter Roberts, said: ‘Dear all, On behalf of the Manx Amateur Boxing Club, our coaches and officials, I would like to express my thanks and gratitude for the hospitality of the Ballymoney Twinning Committee during our short visit to your lovely town.

“In particular we would like to show our appreciation to the effrot made by your committee members. We were picked up from the airport on time and were treated to a guided tour of Belfast City Centre (thanks to Warner) and throughout our visit we were made to feel extremely welcome. Boxers aren’t usually treated like royalty but on this occasion it was a welcome change.

‘Particular gratitude should be directed to the efforts made by Scorpion ABC’s coach and matchmaker, Alan Martin, for his work in organising the bouts.

“Having been involved in boxing for over 30 years I have found that honesty is a rich and valued commodity and Alan has that in abundance. Every boxer’s weight, age and experience was exactly as promised. He was a real pleasure to work with.

“As a travelling man you often hear stories of biased judging at away venues; however on this occasion I can honestly say that the judging and refeering was of an extremely high standard.

“Finally, I would like to pay tribute to your boxers who at all times were polite and courteous to our team, indeed, many of the boxers and their opponents have become friends and long may that continue.

‘We hope that with the efforts of both twinning committees we will have the pleasure of inviting your boxing team and your twinning committee to our Island next season in order to return the generosity you have shown us. I would finally like to wish Scorpion ABC good luck for the remainder of the season,” the letter said.