Two local boxers stepped into the ring at the Coast Hotel and Convention Centre in Langley on June 27.
Brandon Balbirnie, 14, was in against an experienced, undefeated opponent, while Quinn Axelson, 19, was under the bright lights for the first time on the 2014 British Columbia Silver Gloves card hosted by the Langley City Boxing Club.
Balbirnie fought hard in the decision loss, explains Zeus Fight Science coach Kelly Ricketts.
“[He landed] some good combinations and was dominant when pressuring his opponent.”
However, that pressure wasn’t consistent, the coach adds, and Balbirnie’s opponent used an excellent jab to outscore him.
Axelson started well in the opening minute, landing stiff jabs and a good straight right. He was hit a couple of times, however, and took a knee in the latter part of Round 1 for a TKO loss.
That fight was “part of the learning curve” for the beginner, Ricketts says.
“It’s time to ramp up the sparring for both of them. My assistant coach Mike Plant will be providing some good additional sparring for them both.”
Katelin Smith and Kathrin Ricketts are also potential 100 Mile House names looking to start boxing competitively in the near future.
“Both have excellent chances to do great things in the ring.”
