Ní Chuilín praises UK City of Culture sports events

The preliminary rounds of the Ulster Elite Amateur Boxing Championship and the semi-finals will be staged in the Recreation Club at Du Pont, from 21-23 January. The finals will be held in The Venue 2013 on Friday 25 January.

Commenting about the Ulster Elite Amateur Boxing Championship photo call today (Thursday) the Minister said: “Derry has a proud boxing heritage both professional and amateur.

“This is the first time the championships have been held outside Belfast and it will also be the first major event of the City of Culture sports programme. I welcome that such a sporting tournament of such calibre will be part of the city’s celebrations. This is an excellent opportunity for fans to cheer on our Olympic heroes, Paddy Barnes and Michael Conlan, as they compete for further success.”

The Minister added: “As is the case across the north many boxing clubs in the city are in locations which have high social need. The fact that these championships are being hosted in Derry will provide an invaluable boost to them and inspiration for young fighters. Many boxing clubs provide an opportunity for young people to improve their fitness, personal development and confidence. They are an asset to our communities.

“With a packed sports programme, their really is something for all sports fans in the City of Culture calendar. In 2013 the city will also be playing host to an International Basketball tournament, the Masters and Juvenile Development Cross Country Championships and the City of Derry Regatta to name but a few.

“The level of competition and the involvement of the local community, within the programme, will inspire many and leave a sporting legacy long after 2013.”