Boxers take shot at winning belts

THREE Victorian Amateur Boxing League state title belts will be up for grabs at this month’s Bendigo Boxing Championships.

Fight night on Saturday, April 26 at Eaglehawk’s Truscott Reserve will feature showdowns for the heavyweight, cruiserweight, and super welterweight divisions.

It’s been a hectic time for Bendigo Fight Centre trainer Lucas Allen and his squad as they focus on hometown bouts.

Bendigo’s Elsie Tuitupou will again go toe-to-toe with Finau Finau for the VABA heavyweight crown.

When they clashed last April it was Tuitupou who triumphed.

After winning the Australian Amateur Boxing League’s junior cruiserweight title in Gosford last November, Ryan Polglaise will chase a hometown victory.

Polglaise, 16, takes on Jake Kavanagh from Border Boxing Club.

Their previous bout ended in a win for Polglaise who has a five-nil record since he took up boxing two years ago.

The VABL super welterweight contest involves Luke McKenzie from Bendigo and Lachy Frankel from Quon City.

McKenzie is the regional titleholder for the 67-69kg division.

A highlight of the night will be Zack Bingham, aka Kid Dynamite, against Matt Hunt.

“They will be fighting for a belt,” Allen said of Kid Dynamite’s first boxing match against his carer who has fought at several boxing tournaments.

“For Zack (aka Kid) to be given a chance to compete is fantastic for him, family, friends, and all his mates at the gym.

“His workrate and can do approach inspires us all,” Allen said of the BFC martial arts squad which has more than 150 participants.

After an exhibition bout at last September’s championships in Eaglehawk, BFC’s Reanne Brandie and Una Zheng will feature in a super featherweight contest.

Bendigo Fight Centre will also be represented on the April 26 card by Jordy Boag, Hamish Catto Jasper Ellis and Raul Salisbury.

There are some spots available for silver and standard tables.

General admission tickets can be bought on-line for $40 via Bendigo Fight Centre’s website, or $50 at the door on fight night.

Championship sponsors include Iron.tide.Bendigo, Royale Roofing and Waterproofing, Say Cheese Pizza, The Distinctive Creative, The McIvor, The Old Green Bean, and headspace.