Fermoy underscored its reputation as a hotbed of boxing with last Tuesday evening's official opening of Avondhu Boxing Club - the 3rd fully accredited boxing club now operating out of the north Cork town.
Club officers scored a major coup by securing the services of world champion, Gary 'Spike' O'Sullivan to do the tape cutting honours - the Cork city native, remains undefeated after 5 years as a professional.
The assembled crowd were formally welcomed by club coach, Timmy Flynn who said it was a proud occasion for everyone associated with Avondhu Boxing Club. The new club, he said, was committed to promoting boxing among the youth of Fermoy and surrounding areas. He then called upon local curate, Fr. PJ O'Driscoll to bless the club premises which is part of the CYM&WS Hall.
Club president, Cllr Noel McCarthy said it was great to see another sports club up and running in Fermoy. He thanked Timmy Flynn for all the work he put in to getting the club off the ground. He also acknowledged the input of coach Willie Frawley.
Dignitaries from the IABA (Irish Amateur Boxing Association) included president of the Munster council, Jerry O'Mahony and county board president, Ted Barry. Both men paid tribute to the many volunteers involved in helping set up the new club.
Keynote speaker, Gary 'Spike' O'Sullivan said boxing was going from strength to strength in Ireland and is especially strong in Cork. Gary, who currently holds the international WBO title belt, went on to say Fermoy had a great tradition of producing great boxers and made a special point of mentioning the late John Mahon who, he said, did so much to promote boxing in Fermoy. He wished all the young boxers well and expressed the hope that it wouldn't be too long before a county, Munster or All-Ireland champion was produced.
Speaking to The Avondhu, club PRO said, Cllr Tadhg O'Donovan said it was great to have 'Spike' in attendance and he thanked everyone for helping making the occasion such a success.
Avondhu Boxing Club is especially grateful to its many sponsors for the continuing support, these include: Mike's Tyres, Fermoy; The Wimpy, Fermoy, Todgie's Takeaway, Fermoy; The Avondhu Bar, Fermoy; TJ Goodtyme's, Fermoy and The Wagon Tavern, Fermoy. They are also grateful for the co-operation of Ken Butterworth, treasurer of CYM&WS Hall.

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