Offaly club celebrates exciting All-Ireland boxing championship win

THERE was tremendous excitement in Birr Boxing Club recently as Liam Murphy captured the All-Ireland Championship at the National Stadium in Dublin, cheered on by a large and passionate group of supporters who had travelled from Birr to witness the occasion.

Speaking to the Midland Tribune afterwards, Birr Boxing Club coach John Pardy was full of praise for Liam’s outstanding achievement. Liam came through the Leinster Final to face the Munster champion on the Thursday in what John described as an excellent contest. Liam secured victory by unanimous decision against Cillian Carey of St Colman’s Boxing Club, Cork. “It was a hard-fought match, with both Liam and Cillian giving it their all,” said John.

That win set up the final two days later, where Liam faced the formidable Michael McAteer of St Monica’s Boxing Club, Newry. John said it was never going to be a contest for the faint-hearted, as they knew McAteer would come out strong. As a southpaw, he presented Liam with a real challenge, one that required quick thinking and sharp adjustment said John.

From the opening round, however, Liam rose to the occasion brilliantly. John said Liam withstood the expected early pressure from the Newry boxer before standing his ground and going on the offensive in a contest between two highly talented fighters.

“Liam just kept pushing forward and closing him down,” said John. “He knew he had to keep the southpaw on the back foot, and he did exactly that every round, while delivering superb punches through the centre.”

It was a thrilling contest, with both boxers showed immense courage, skill and determination. In the end, the five judges unanimously awarded Liam the championship title, sparking great celebrations among the Birr supporters.

Speaking afterwards, Liam described it as the most intense experience of his life. “Michael was a great fighter, and I had never boxed a southpaw before. He was really strong and landed some big shots,” said Liam. “Overnight I had to learn how to change my foot stance to deal with that style, and Coach John was just amazing in getting me ready.”

Liam’s mother, Maura, said she was absolutely delighted for Birr Boxing Club and proud of all that had been achieved. “When you see the size of some of the other clubs, you realise just how much commitment John Pardy and the team put into boxing in Birr,” she said. “Huge credit must go to John Pardy and Daniel Hutchinson — volunteerism and professionalism at its very best — and to all those who have been part of Liam’s journey in the club.”

Maura also praised the dedication shown behind the scenes, noting how John travelled the length and breadth of the country with Liam to arrange sparring bouts with other boxers. “We are very grateful to those clubs for giving Liam those valuable experiences,” she said. “It really did prepare him for the Championships.”

Liam’s father, Ger, was deeply impressed by the professionalism and sportsmanship on display throughout the Championships.

“You see the hype and theatrics around big fights on television and wonder what Liam is facing into,” he said. “But in reality, it was lovely to see Liam and Michael chatting before the fight, then going into the ring and giving absolutely everything, and afterwards shaking hands, awarding each other their medal and chatting in the dressing room afterwrds”. That is the reality of this very disciplined sport said Ger.

Club Secretary Tracey Pardy was keen to point out Liam’s All-Ireland is a proud moment not only for Birr Boxing Club, but for the wider community and his success is a testament to hard work, dedication, expert coaching and the strong spirit of support that exists within the club.

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Offaly club celebrates exciting All-Ireland boxing championship win

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