Billy inspires club's future boxing stars
BEIJING hopeful Billy Joe Saunders received an award for outstanding contribution to amateur boxing at Hoddesdon Boxing Academy's presentation night which saw a large number of the club's talented boxers honoured for their efforts over the season.

Mercury sports reporter Marc Beyeler presented the award to Saunders on behalf of the club and told the 150 members and guests at the King and Tinker pub, Enfield, it had been a privilege to follow his progress.

In just two years the 18-year-old welterweight has progressed from the fringes of the England squad to the Beijing Olympics.

"I never expected to receive this award," he said.

"It's a great surprise."

Saunders also received the best senior award for his efforts in qualifying for the Games in Pescara in March as well as tournament victories including the EU Championships in Poland, the Strandja Cup in Bulgaria, and the Tammer Tournament in Finland.

Other award winners on the night were Loz Bell, who received the most improved senior and clubman of the year awards, Ronnie McNamara, who took the boxers' boxer of the year and best junior trophies, and national ABA runner-up Ben Fowl, winner of the coaches' boxer of the year award.

Hoddesdon coach Sab Leo also presented certificates to members of the club's minis section.

In addition to the awards ceremony, hosted by former professional light-welterweight Bob Williams, a sports memorabilia auction raised more than £1,100 for the club.

Leo was delighted to see so many people attend the presentation evening, the first of its kind for Hoddesdon Boxing Academy, and paid tribute to Saunders' efforts over the season.

He said: "The atmosphere was terrific and many of the parents of the younger age groups were amazed at the magnitude of such an event.

"Everyone joined in and showed their appreciation towards everyone that was presented with an award.

"We raised monies that will go towards equipment and we are sending a strong team of boxers to Denmark in October for an international tournament.

"We're 100 per cent behind Billy as is everyone from surrounding boxing clubs and the county.

"It's hoped Hoddesdon Boxing Academy will get together to watch Billy box through the rounds and offer him our full and deserved support during the Olympics."