Two young Antiguan boxers are set to compete in the Winfield Brathwaite School Boys Tournament in Guyana, but their participation hangs in the balance due to last-minute funding issues.
Leon Loudat, 17, and Osahar Brown, both gold medalists at last year’s OECS tournament, have been training diligently for this opportunity.
The team, led by their coach, has secured flights with the help of private sponsors, including Hadeed Motors Ltd., Ross Construction, and Cool & Smooth. However, they are still awaiting crucial funding from the Ministry of Sport for accommodation expenses.
Severin said, “We’re still awaiting funding from the Ministry of Sport, who said that they would help us with the funding for the accommodation. That was supposed to be the OECS funding, but seeing that it was approved already, we’re still trying to see if we can get it for this event in Guyana. So, right now, it’s down to the wire. Everything is taking so long, but we’re still keeping the faith.”
Despite the uncertainty, the team remains hopeful. They have had to adjust their travel plans, leaving a day earlier to ensure timely arrival in Guyana due to the flight availability.
The coach emphasised the boxers’ dedication and hard work, expressing optimism that their efforts will pay off.
This situation highlights the need for a better-functioning Boxing Association in Antigua to ensure timely preparation and support for future events.
As the tournament approaches, the team continues to seek solutions, relying on the generosity of sponsors and the potential last-minute assistance from the government.
