Last Saturday (February 11) saw boxing bouts beside the seaside return, as Tenby Sharks Amateur Boxing Club put on a show to remember at the town’s leisure centre.
It was only the second show of boxing since the Sharks’ inception and the first show held in Tenby for several years.
The Sharks (now based at their gym at Carew Airfield) set about showcasing all the hard work that's gone on since it opened its doors in 2017.
“We had 11 bouts in all and there really were some crackers,” said head coach Mark Davies.
“All the local lads, and that includes our brothers from Narberth ABC and Dockers ABC, as well as those that travelled here from all over Wales put it all out there to make the show a great evening of amateur boxing.
“The highs and lows that come with combat sports are second to none. The raw energy in the building at times was something special, the likes of which Tenby Leisure Centre had likely never seen before. We’re already looking forward to the next one!” continued Mark.
On the night, Frankie Gammer lived up to the pedigree in his first fight, pressuring his opponent to gain the win with a few standing counts along the way. The crowd were on their feet the whole time for this one, with Frankie also earning ‘boxer of the night’ from the officials.
Tommy Whitbread was next out representing Tenby. Unfortunately he pulled a muscle early in the second round and couldn't continue, a shame as it had been a great bout up until his injury.
Next on was Zac Gammer who unfortunately on the night couldn't continue his previous success on the last show, losing out to a game boxer from Somerton Rascals, Newport.
Fourth on for Tenby Sharks was local favourite Jack Clarke. After a tough year Jack had the support from what seemed like half of Pembrokeshire, with the rood nearly coming off the venue when he was introduced!
Unfortunately it wasn’t to be on the night for Jack, as he narrowly lost out on a split decision to Narberth ABC’s Iolo Craig, but the bout was a real old school battle and rightly earned the boys ‘fight of the night’ from the officials.
The fifth and final boxer from Tenby Sharks to step into the ring was Aeron Keane as he took on a strong lad from Cardiff University. As soon as the bell went the away boxer came flying out of the traps throwing bombs as he tried to get on top of Aeron.
Luckily the Tenby boxer’s composure and dynamite in both hands paced the way for an early night, as he landed a slicing right hand on his opponent’s chin, rendering him unable to regain his composure for what felt an age, but luckily he was ok as Aeron’ hand was raised as the victor.
Last on was another local favourite in Narberth ABC’s Jack Parkinson. Jack never fails to out on a show and this was no different as he battled it out with Cardigan ABC’s Josh Mellor.
The fight ebbed back and forth before Jack finally came through with a satisfying split decision win!
Tenby Sharks ABC would like to thank the following for their assistance with the event: Tenby Leisure Centre for allowing use of the facility; Sloppy Joes Streetfood for providing the food; James Hayes of Flamingo Bingo for use of tables, chairs, bar etc; Gav from The Rib and Oyster for sponsoring the trophies that were presented to the boxers; Tones Clarkee for stepping up and doing a grand job of MC'ing for the night; Paul Luger for his continued support of the Club and help with setting the bar up.
Further thanks go to the Qube Restaurant Tenby; The Cove Tenby; LJ accountancy; artist Tom Sloan; Big Brum’s; Glenthorne Guest House, Tenby; Tenby House Hotel; Rhys Jordan; Instant Waste Ltd;Tenby Fish and Chips; Atlantic Edge Oysters; and Tenby Tyres for their support by sponsoring the bouts, and everyone else that has supported the Club throughout.