On 4 August, Former World Heavyweight Boxing Champion, Frank Bruno flew into Belfast with a group from the Repton Boxing Club in East London, to ‘cut the tape’ on a new purpose built boxing facility for the Dockers Amateur Boxing Club in North Belfast. Speaking at the event the charismatic pugilist extolled the virtues of the Noble Art saying:
"The greatest reward for me from boxing has been the same as thousands of young boxers across the world receive. That is learning to exercise self-discipline and finding a positive direction and focus for youthful energies. I am absolutely delighted to be here today to open these premises and, having had a good look around, I am confident that the future of boxing in inner North Belfast is in safe hands".
The state of the art facility was built to replace the dilapidated premises the young would-be champions have been using until now. A total of £400,000 has been invested in the new building with £380k coming from the European Union’s Urban II Community Initiative programme and the balance from the Laganside Corporation.
Ciarán Shannon, Programme Manager with the North Belfast Partnership, who manage the Urban II Programme, expressed his delight to be involved with the project saying:
"As the first large scale capital build project to be completed, its fitting it should be about the provision of a facility where young people, regardless of community background, can come together to pursue a common interest. The Urban II Programme is about more than physical regeneration, its also about contributing to better relations in this part of the city and I have no doubt this facility will contribute very positively to both these objectives".
Speaking at the launch Dockers ABC Chairman, Paddy Fitzsimons, expressed his gratitude to all those involved in the project
"To see this wonderful resource we have here today is a dream come true for the club. The old premises had seen better times and their days were certainly numbered. This state of the art facility has been a long time in planning and we are very grateful to the people who have shown faith in us and made this possible. The Dockers Social Club, the Laganside Corporation and particularly the North Belfast Partnership have made our dream a reality. They have ensured that the future of amateur boxing for the kids from both sides of the community in North Belfast is secure for many years to come".
Kyle Alexander, Chief Executive of Laganside Corporation congratulated the club on their achievement.
"Laganside’s vision for the waterfront has been to make it a place of opportunity for all. We are delighted to support the Club in this new building which gives young people from local communities the facilities and opportunities they deserve".
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