The European U19 Boxing Championships will take place in Loznica, Serbia, from August 11 to August 22, with two talented Wexford boxers selected to represent Team Ireland on the international stage.
Gorey Boxing Club’s Kayleigh Byrne has been named in the Irish squad at 51kg, while Kalib Walshe of CBS Wexford has earned selection in the 60kg division.
The pair are among 13 of Ireland’s brightest young boxing talents who will compete against Europe’s elite in what promises to be one of the biggest events on the underage boxing calendar.
Speaking following the announcement, Gorey Boxing Club paid tribute to Byrne’s dedication and the work that has gone into securing her place on Team Ireland.
“She has been training in the High Performance Unit in Abbotstown over the last number of weeks with other top talents from around the country trying to impress the selection committee. It was announced yesterday she is on the team and we have been preparing tirelessly in the club and also on the road for top sparring.”
The club also acknowledged the people who have helped Byrne reach another international championship.
“Big shout out to Kevin Murphy, her nutritionist and strength and conditioning coach. He has been a real game changer since joining the club. Thanks to all her sparring partners for the continued quality rounds. Top girls like these have brought Kayleigh to the next level.”
Confidence is high that Byrne is ready for the challenge ahead in Serbia.
“Kayleigh is already razor sharp and eager to pull on the Irish vest again. We are certain she will represent her club, county and country with pride. We will continue putting in the graft and hopefully bring more European success back to the town. Well done Kayleigh, we are so proud of you,” a spokesperson for Gorey Boxing Club said.
Meanwhile, CBS Wexford’s Kalib Walshe has also been rewarded for his impressive performances with selection at 60kg. His inclusion ensures Wexford will have two representatives wearing the Irish colours when the championships get underway in Loznica.
The entire county will be wishing both Byrne and Walshe every success as they bid to make their mark on the European stage.
Team Ireland – European U19 Championships (Loznica, Serbia | August 11–22)
- 48kg: Louise Joyce (Olympic BC, Mullingar)
- 50kg: Kristian Jubani (Crumlin BC, Dublin)
- 51kg: Kayleigh Byrne (Gorey BC, Wexford)
- 54kg: Carly O’Herron (Rochfortbridge BC, Westmeath)
- 55kg: Lee Largey Snodden (Immaculata BC, Belfast)
- 57kg: Leah Moore (Cabra BC, Dublin)
- 60kg: Kalib Walshe (CBS Wexford)
- 65kg: Grace Bailey (Castlebar BC, Mayo)
- 65kg: Jason Donoghue (Olympic BC, Mullingar)
- 70kg: John Donoghue (Olympic BC, Mullingar)
- 70kg: Kaysie Joyce (Clonmel BC, Tipperary)
- 75kg: Jason Whelan (Dublin Docklands)
- 85kg: Sean Doohan (Dunfanaghy BC, Donegal)
Jason Redmond
From Gorey, Jason is the owner of Wexford Weekly. He is also a post-primary English and History teacher.
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