The Blackburn and Darwen community came together to see an electrifying and inspiring event as John Fury, the renowned boxing icon and father of world champion Tyson Fury, lent his support to the Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone Boxing Event.
This exciting event, organised by Technique ABC, promised to be a thrilling day of talent and dedication within the boxing world, demonstrating the importance of grassroots clubs. With all nine Technique ABC boxers being victorias, it is a testament to the training and effort of the young people who participated and the coaches. The event also hosted the North West
Region championship finals with four of the Technique ABC boxers winning the finals who now progress to the national stages of the competition on the 15th of October, hoping to get a place in the finals weekend held in Birmingham on the 21st and 22nd of October. Two boxers had byes in the regional finals, so six Technique ABC boxers have progressed to the national finals, which is the greatest haul the club has ever had. Last year the club had two national champions in the same competition, Aaron Fletchman and Mia Bradshaw.
This is a testament to the relationship working with the Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone provides.
In the same weekend, Aaron Fletchman, current 2x North West region, Manchester Box Cup and national champion, flew to Sweden to compete in the prestigious Swedish box cup with the North West select team; Aaron came away victorious, winning both his semi-final and final bouts over international champions unanimously to collect gold. Aaron is now a youth worker at the Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone and helps coach the new up-and-coming boxers.
Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone and Technique ABC joined forces in 2020. The partnership has seen the improvement of the Boxing Gym affiliated with England Boxing, regularly hosting North West Region Boxing Competitions.
The partnership has meant that more local youngsters can try boxing for free, train and compete. Technique ABC currently has over 50 active boxers and over 110 students who regularly train at the Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone.
John Fury, who needed no introduction to the boxing world, graced the occasion with his presence, offering support and encouragement to young and aspiring boxers from Blackburn and the surrounding areas. His endorsement of the event underscored the significance of community engagement and mentorship in nurturing the sport’s future stars.
John Fury expressed his excitement about the event, saying:
“I’m at the championships here, for the amateur championships at Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone. I want to let people know how important it is for events like this to take place; I want to thank all the people who have put it together and everyone who’s contributed. These events are very important to showcase young people in the area and support boxing throughout Great Britain.”
The Boxing Event hosted by Technique ABC, in partnership with Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, took place on 30th September. The event featured a series of exhilarating boxing matches, showcasing the immense talent and dedication of young boxers who had been honing their skills under the guidance of Technique ABC.
Technique ABC, the driving force behind the Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone Boxing Gym, is dedicated to training and mentoring young boxers in the borough area—their commitment to nurturing talent and promoting community unity aligned perfectly with John Fury’s vision.
“We were thrilled to have had John Fury join us in our efforts to uplift and inspire the youth of Blackburn through the sport of boxing,” said Shaun Litherland, Head Coach for Technique ABC. “His presence and support undoubtedly motivated our young athletes to strive for excellence both inside and outside the ring. We were grateful for his endorsement and looked forward to an unforgettable evening of boxing.”
Wayne Wild, Trustee of Blackburn & Daren Youth Zone, emphasised the significance of the ‘Next Level’ sports offer’ and said:
“As a trustee of Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, we want to make a difference and give opportunities to young people in Blackburn with Darwen. We have countless examples of how, through positive activities, we can make a difference to the lives of young people.
Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone allows individuals, companies, and grantmakers to collaborate and contribute to this essential initiative. The provision of funding plays a pivotal role in empowering the youth and fostering lasting positive changes within the community.
The ultimate goal of the ‘Next Level’ vision is to open up new opportunities and avenues for young people to engage in constructive activities, thereby creating an equitable playing field for all and addressing any potential barriers to their progress.
If you represent a business, individual, a sports club, or a funder and are keen on supporting our “Next Level” sports offer, we encourage you to reach out and connect with us”.