TIRAU

Putaruru Press, Volume XXI, Issue 1232, 29 May 1947, Page 2

TIRAU

BOXING CLUB Successful Opening- Night Matamata Boxers ’ Exhibition The recently-formed Tirau Boxing Clulb, which is to be an auxiliary of the Matamata Boxing Club, held a very successful opening night in the Tirau Hall on Thursday. There was a large attendance of parents and other enthusiastts, together with a very good sprinkling of 'boys desirous of learning the art of self-' defence. During the evening great interest was taken in the display given by Matamata boys. Two bantams trained iby Mr. A. Campbell, Autridge and Chandler, demonstrate<f the various movements in attack and defence, and later interesting bouts were staged between Goodiwin and Dunseath, and Benton and Palmer, all of the Matamata club. These exhibitions' aroused great interest among all present, and the boys were warmly applauded- for their showing. Messrs. Baker and Tom Chandler, who are to train and coach the Tirau boys, then assumed charge and acted as mentors to several local lads who took the ring. Mr. Gordon Campbell, a former well-known active member of the original Matamata and Okoroire clubs, was also present. During the evening Mr. Ray Cotter, president of the Tirau club, thanked Mr. Waterson and other officials of the Matamata club for attending and bringing along the six boxers for the evening. The Tirau club would meet every, week in future, and he hoped that the youth of the district would come along and take advantage of the facilities which would be provided for them. Replying, Mr Frank Tansey, vicepresident of the Matamata club, stated that his club would be pleased to assist on all occasions. Later they would bring the ring and stage a tournament when the firau club was further advanced. Racing might be the sport of kings, but he felt that boxing was the king of sports.