Local Hero: William Heaphey Shines
William Heaphey from Golden Gloves BC has become the boxing pride of Leeside with his return to Cork as a European bronze medallist. The talented athlete was elated after representing Ireland at the European U17 Championships held in Kienbaum, Germany.
Cork Representation at Championships
Other athletes from Cork included Abby Murray of Muskerry BC and Claire Cronin from St Martha’s BC. Despite their determined efforts against tough competition, they were unable to progress in the tournament. However, it is believed that the experience gained will be beneficial for their futures.
Cork Ex-Boxers Association Meeting
The Cork Ex-Boxers Association will convene for its first meeting of the year on Monday, January 26. Chairman JJ Murphy emphasized that the upcoming year will offer ample opportunities for the association to support the work of the county board. Having been established for 54 years, the association aims to preserve the legacy of its founding members and ensure its ongoing relevance.
Upcoming Annual Assembly
Conal Thomas, President of the Cork Boxing Fraternity Association, announced that the annual rural social assembly for Cork clubs will once again be hosted at Hickey’s Emporium in Dromahane on Saturday, January 31. This event has enjoyed great success in previous years and will feature several special guests, with boxing enthusiast Sean Hickey as the host.
Honoring Deceased Boxers
A recent meeting with Glen BC officials led to the decision to hold a special event in March to honor all deceased Cork boxers at the Glen Boxing Club. A list of names will be compiled, and invitations will be sent to their families for a mass and a tour of a museum dedicated to Cork’s boxing heritage.
Acknowledging Contributions
The next Cork Boxing Breakfast is scheduled for Saturday, January 17, at The Muskerry Arms Restaurant, where various awards will be presented to club members for their contributions. This initiative aims to recognize all individuals involved in the county board’s operations as vital ambassadors of the sport, reinforcing the importance of every member’s role in the long-term growth of boxing.
Celebrating Boxing History
A plaque honoring Con Clarke, the first Corkman to win an IABA Senior title in 1922, will be erected at the Muskerry Arms. The unveiling will take place with the Lord Mayor present. Later that day, Cork boxers will hope to qualify for the national elite finals at the National Stadium, a highlight in the Irish boxing calendar.
Community Sentiments
The revamped Bishop Lucy Park is receiving mixed reviews from the public; however, the new boxing wall showcasing Cork’s boxing history has been positively received. An additional plaque featuring a QR code will be installed in the new year to provide visitors with further insights into the sporting lineage of honored boxers.
Best Wishes for the New Year
Finally, Michael O’Brien, President of the County Board, has extended holiday greetings to all Cork boxing enthusiasts abroad, including members of the International Friends of Cork Boxing. He wishes all sponsors, supporters, clubs, and boxers in Leeside a joyful Christmas and a prosperous new year in sport.
