Boxing returns to Winchester after 15 year absence
A previously disused facility in the centre of Winchester has been given a new lease of life by the Winchester Boxing Club. Renovations have already begun ahead of the club’s opening on Monday 6th September.
The project has been made possible by close partnership work between Winchester City Council and local boxing enthusiast Richard Colbourne, and Polish National Boxing Champion, Bernard Gruszczynski.
Sessions will be held at the Garrison Ground, Bar End Road and are aimed at both juniors and seniors who want to improve their fitness and self confidence, or who want to improve their boxing skills.
The club has recently been affiliated to the Amateur Boxing Association (ABA) and those who want to get involved in boxing at a competitive level will have the opportunity to train and compete in local competitions.
Funding from Sports Unlimited has also recently been secured for start-up activities aimed at young people from the local area. This funding will ensure that sessions are affordable, as children will only be charged £1 a session. Sessions will be available for juniors and adults on Tuesday and Friday evenings and on Sunday mornings.
Cllr Lucille Thompson, Portfolio Holder for Communities, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for local residents and will help to encourage young people to become healthier and fitter in a disciplined environment. Young people in Highcliffe are already looking forward to participating in the sessions when the club opens”.
The facility has been adapted with donations from local businesses including Travis Perkins, RBS Scaffolding, E Clifton Fabrications, and Greenacre Brickwork.