Patrick Brown and Chantelle Reid from GB Boxing carved their paths to Paris 2024, wrapping up the Olympic qualifier in Busto Arsizio, Italy with triumphs that sealed their spots.
This achievement swells GB Boxing’s roster for the upcoming Olympics to five, following the successful bids of Charley Davison, Rosie Eccles, and Delicious Orie earlier in June 2023. Cindy Ngamba, sparring with GB Boxing yet competing for the Boxing Refugee Team, also punched her ticket to Paris in Italy.
The door remains ajar for GB Boxing’s other hopefuls, with a last shot at Olympic glory at the World Qualification Tournament in Bangkok. There, fighters will vie for spots in the remaining weight divisions, ranging from flyweight to light heavyweight.
In Italy, Manchester’s Patrick Brown clinched his Olympic berth with a resounding win against Poland’s Mateusz Bereznicki in the heavyweight division. Overwhelmed with emotion, Brown dedicated his victory to his father, his supporters, and the inspirational message of perseverance he embodies for his community.
Chantelle Reid, marking a stunning comeback to the ring after a hiatus, secured her spot alongside Brown with a victory over Aziza Zokirova. Her whirlwind journey from national champion to Olympic qualifier underscores her relentless dedication and the transformative call-up from Rob McCracken.
Cindy Ngamba, representing hope and resilience, echoed the collective ambition for gold while acknowledging the vast support system at GB Boxing that propelled her journey from the Boxing Refugee Team to the Olympic stage.
However, the day also bore witness to the heartbreak of Kiaran MacDonald and Owain Harris-Allan, whose valiant efforts fell short at the final hurdle, setting their sights on redemption in Bangkok.
Rob McCracken, GB Boxing’s Performance Director, reflected on the team’s journey and achievements in Italy, emphasizing the invaluable experience and the promise it holds for Paris. With the Bangkok qualifier on the horizon, the squad remains poised for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Who do you think will emerge victorious in Paris?