BOXING.

Waikato Times, Volume 121, Issue 20126, 23 February 1937, Page 11

BOXING.

PROQREBB IN HAMILTON. POINTS RAISED AT MEETING. The necessity for obtaining overseas exponents and the desirability of increasing the membership of the association were two points stressed in the president’s report at the annual meeting of the Hamilton Boxing Association, held last evening. If the sport were to make any progress in •Hamilton these two matters would have to receive serious consideration. It was stated that the membership, after being at a low ebb, despite the small fee, had now risen to 108, a record number. However, the season, although successful from a competitive viewpoint., had been disappointing financially and the sport had received poor public support. Under the circumstances a material Increase in membership was recommended by the committee. The initial carnival, the Waikato Amateur Championships, had been very successful from every aspect, but two subsequent professional bouts and the South Auckland Amateur Championships had attracted small audiences, although in every case splendid boxing was provided. Committee's Recommendations. That all contests ’should be held in one hall and that a shield should be provided for the trainer of the largest number of winning boxers at the Waikato Amateur Championship, were two recommendations put forward by the retiring committee. Mr R. W. Healey, chairman of the executive, said he considered the practice of holding bouts in various halls had had a detrimental effect. The matter of a shield for trainers would, he said, meet with general support as it would give all trainers an incentive and probably attract Auckland trainers to enter fighters at the Waikato championships.

The following officers were elected: Patron, Mr R. T. Reid; president, Mr C. A. Barrel!, M.P.; committee, Messrs E. L. Watkins. L. Reid, E. R. Vernall, F. Williams, M. Mclntyre and E. Purcell; secretary, Mr W. J. Davidson; treasurer, Mr G. L. Ramsay; assistantsecretary. Mr J R. Rowe: auditor, Mr W. V. St. George: honorary doctors. Drs. T. C. Fraser, T. A. Milroy. M. M. Hockin. E. C. Brewis and R. McCready.

After discussion it was decided to fix the subscription for the coming season at one guinea, several members supporting the contention of Mr Healey, that in raising the fee. the association would have the additional funds at its disposal necessary to promote more attractive contests.