SPORT OF BOXING

Taranaki Daily News, 30 August 1930, Page 5

SPORT OF BOXING

LECKIE—DONOVAN CONTEST. It is safe to feay at no time in. New Zealand’s ring history has the sport of boxing attained, such a degre'e of popularity as it enjoys at present.. In all parts of the country the services of high-class exponents are eagerly sought and it is a distinct compliment -to the qualities of Johnny Leckie and Tommy Donovan, who contest 15 rounds at New Plymouth next Saturday, that they are so often seen in action, frequently and successfully, against first-rate overseas men. _ ■ To'them must go the credit for the present boom, for a year or two back boxing in New Zealand was at a low ebb. Then, a graduate from the ama-/ teur ranks, there came into prominence a stripling whose displays took the country by storm —Johnny Leckie. Boxing associations frantically sought to match him with the best procurable from overseas, and almost invariably the result was the same —the New Zealander’s hand was held aloft. In his wake came another of . the same poundage, Tommy Donovan, and while ruggedness was his forte, he served . still further to bring his country, into pror/.nence in the sporting world, in which New Zealand to-day holds a high position. In securing a bout in which this pair will vie for the referee's favour, the Taranaki Boxing Association has, as usual, procured for its patrons a highclass match; .in fact, the best .offering. It is anticipated bookings, the. plan of which opens at Collier’s Music Warehouse this morning, will be heavy.