Chaos at National Boxing Boy Championship forces event cancellation
An unprecedented incident prompts safety concerns as the boxing competition, which contained fighters from Donegal, gets postponed
A serious incident occurred last night at the National Boy 4 Championship quarter-finals in Castlerea, Roscommon that has forced the cancellation of the event this weekend where boxers from Donegal were participating.
It is understood that during the stream before one of the fights, men entered the venue with bill hooks, while some individuals had ski masks covering their faces.
Chairs were thrown as the individuals, there appeared to be as many as four, ran around the outskirts of the ring before exiting the other side of the venue.
In a statement released by the IABA last night, it states; “IABA is aware of a serious incident during the final stages of the 2024 National Boy 4 Championship quarter-finals in Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, this evening.
“That such an incident could occur at a children’s sporting event is abhorrent and is roundly condemned by every member of the Irish boxing family. Gardaí are investigating the incident.
“Two more days of boxing were scheduled in to take place in this competition over the weekend. They have been suspended and the remaining days of boxing will be rescheduled
“Understandably, there will be clubs, boxers, officials and supporters at a loss. But in the interest of their safety, there is no option; risk remains too high even if the competition proceeds behind closed doors.”
It is understood at this time that none of the young fighters were physically harmed.