Surge in participation forces move of GBA developmental tournament to National Gymnasium

The Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) has announced a shift in venue and schedule for its upcoming Developmental Tournament.

Due to overwhelming participation from boxing gyms across the country, the event will now be held at the National Gymnasium on May 30, beginning at 17:00h.

According to the GBA, this decision reflects the continued growth and increasing interest in amateur boxing, with more gyms and young athletes actively seeking opportunities to compete under the Association’s developmental programme.

The GBA expressed immense satisfaction with the momentum generated by recent editions of the tournament, noting that the response from gyms has exceeded expectations and underscored the strength of the sport’s grassroots structure in Guyana.

GBA President Steve Ninvalle highlighted the significance of the growing participation, stating that it is a clear indicator of progress at the developmental level.

“What we are witnessing is the steady and encouraging growth of amateur boxing in Guyana. The level of interest from our young boxers, as well as the commitment from gyms across the country, shows that the future of the sport looks good,” Ninvalle said.

“This programme continues to serve its purpose in identifying and nurturing talent for national and international success.”

The most recent Developmental Tournament, staged at the Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis Gym, once again delivered an evening of competitive bouts featuring promising boxers from Pace and Power Boxing Gym, Harpy Eagle Boxing Gym, Andrew Lewis Boxing Gym (ALBG), and the New Amsterdam Boxing Academy (NABA).

Across multiple weight divisions, the event showcased both technical development and rising competitiveness among the young athletes.

Early action saw Terrie Matherson and Tyrese De Younge of Pace and Power secure points victories in the 30–33kg category, while Ukesh Persaud of NABA impressed with a disciplined win over Harpy Eagle’s Denzil Thomas.

One of the standout performances came from ALBG’s Junior Madray, who forced a stoppage against Marcus Vanderstoop in the 36–39kg division after dominating from the opening bell.

The lone female bout also drew attention, with Makayla Rose of Pace and Power edging Mya Simon of Harpy Eagle via split decision in a closely contested encounter.

The heavier divisions produced further excitement, including stoppage wins for Dyreck Springer and Emmanuel Springer of Pace and Power, while ALBG’s Ezekiel Bancroft and Simeon Hamer secured hard-fought victories on points in their respective categories.

At the conclusion of the tournament, several individual accolades were handed out to recognise the standout performers. Ukesh Persaud was named Best School Age Boxer, Junior Madray took home Best U13 Boxer honours, and Terrie Matherson earned the Best U15 Boxer title.

Additionally, Curtis McDonald received the Best U17 Boxer recognition, while the Andrew Lewis Boxing Gym was awarded Best Gym of the tournament. Veteran trainer Lennox Daniels was also honoured for his efforts, taking home the Best Coach award.