President of the Guyana Boxing Association, Steve Ninvalle, said he is heartened by the achievements of the four boxers who represented Guyana at the inaugural South American Youth Games in Lima, Peru. Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, Ninvalle disclosed that the boxers were excellent ambassadors, adding that amateur boxing is on good ground.
“We are elated with what our boxers did in Peru. They have been excellent ambassadors for Guyana,” Ninvalle said.
Junior flyweight Tefon Greene, flyweight Michael April, bantamweight Joel Williamson and welterweight Travis Fraser were the boxers.
Fraser, who lost to Ruis Sanche of Ecuador in the 69kg final, heads the list with a silver medal. Fraser’s teammates, Greene (49kg), April (52kg) and Williamson (56kg), copped bronze medals to ensure a 100% medal record for the four boxers.
Meanwhile, Ninvalle said with a collective effort by all, boxing can move to the next level. He said there are many good boxers, but the government and the business community need to come forward and assist the sport more.
Ninvalle noted that from the GBA’ standpoint, amateur boxers will be encamped every weekend, with the view to further develop their trade.
The experienced Wincel Thomas who headed the five-member contingent said in his opinion the team did exceedingly well, but could have done better. He singled out Green’s performance as outstanding while the others definitely gave a good account of themselves.
Guyana was represented by a multi-discipline sport team of 22 members that competed in athletics, badminton, boxing, cycling, swimming, table-tennis and weightlifting. Guyana gained nine medals overall.
Argentina, Aruba, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Columbia, Ecuador, Panama, Paraguay, Suriname, Uruguay, Venezuela and hosts, Peru, participated at the Games.
