Kellie Harrington opened Ireland’s campaign at the AIBA World Women’s Elite Championships in New Delhi, with victory over New Zealand’s Troy Garton by unanimous decision.
The Dubliner who won silver at light-welterweight in the 2016 World Championships, took victory at lightweight with the judges scoring the fight 30-26 x3 and 30-27 x2.
Harrington was the classier boxer showing great ring experience and composure to stifle the on-marching New Zealander. Harrington oozed class dancing around the ring with great movement and countering anything Garton had to offer. In the end Harrington made light-work of her opponent who tried everything but wasn’t enough to rattle the Dubliner.
Harrington will now progress to the round of 16 to take on three-time world medalist Sarita Devi from India. Four other Irish boxers are in action tomorrow.
Cavan’s experienced international flyweight Ceire Smithwill take on the formidable Gabriela Dimitrova of Bulgaria.
On the same day, Belfast's featherweight Michaela Walsh will challenge Romania’s Lacramiora Perijoc. Dundalk’s young and exciting prospect Amy Broadhurst faces European bronze medalist Ekaterina Dynnik of Russia. Finally, European Championship Silver medalist Aoife O’Rourke will square off with Taiwan’s Yang Ya Chu at middleweight.
After a bye in the first round, Gráinne Walsh will take on either an Argentinian or French opponent in the last 16 on Sunday.
Ireland, managed by Bernard Dunne, will be looking to maintain their fantastic record of medaling at every Elite Women’s World Championships since 2006. The last time the World Women’s Elite Championships were held in India, Katie Taylor won gold.
Irish squad
51kg Ceire Smith (Virginia)
57kg Michaela Walsh (Monkstown)
60kg Kellie Harrington (St Mary’s)
64kg Amy Broadhurst (Dealgan)
69kh Grainne Walsh (Sparticus)
75kg Aoife O’Rourke (Castlerea)
