The Kāpiti Boxing Club’s open day was a huge success with plenty of enthusiasts turning up to the club’s headquarters in Manchester St, Paraparaumu.
Club president Wayne Spratt said the turnout was very encouraging.
“We have three top trainers here and the kids can get expert advice. At one time boxing coaches closely guarded their secrets but these days to get better boxers we need to share the knowledge. This is a safe environment where people of all ages can learn skills and discipline.”
Coach Spratt said it is important for New Zealand to focus on bringing through young talent.
“We didn’t have any boxers at the last Olympics and we need to change that. Boxing is a fantastic sport and we are doing all we can to train the future champions.”
Coaches Keith Bullock and Richard Fleetwood also add vast experience to the training team at the club.
For details about joining email [email protected]. The club meets Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 6pm at the blue and yellow building (lockups) at the end of Manchester St, Paraparaumu.
The open day also provided some action with a boxing team up from Wellington for some sparring.
In the video below Ōtaki boxer Perry Wallace, 17, (wearing the white gloves) spars with Wellington’s Atarangi Ranui, 18. Perry has only been boxing this year but has quickly developed his skills.
“I love it, the spar was good. I need to work on my fitness but the training here is great.”
Coach Spratt said Wallace will have a few club fights first before taking on championship bouts.