Boxing Association’s Referee/Judges seminar takes centre stage

The Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) will launch its Referee and Judges seminar today (May 29) from 09:00h at the Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis Gym in Albouystown, conducted by James Beckles, an International Boxing Association (IBA) Three-Star Referee and Judge.

Beckles will lead the certification process as part of the GBA’s ongoing efforts to elevate the standards of boxing officiating in Guyana, coming at a time when amateur boxing is experiencing a remarkable resurgence in the sport, particularly in its youth and junior divisions.

An Olympic and World Boxing Referees Instructor and Evaluator, Beckles most recently served as Chief Instructor and the top Evaluator for officiating at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, further highlighting the calibre of expertise he brings to this initiative.

The certification course will blend theoretical instruction with practical application.

Participants will get the opportunity to put their training to the test during a national boxing tournament hosted by the GBA from May 31 to June 1.

The tournament will double as a live assessment platform, with Beckles evaluating the performance of aspiring referees, judges, and technical officials.

Guyana’s emergence on the international boxing stage continues to gain momentum.

Most recently, Abiola Jackman made history by becoming the first Guyanese boxer to win gold at the AMBC Elite Championships.

Currently, Guyana is represented by one IBA Three-Star coach, Sebert Blake, following the passing of the revered Terrence Poole (MS), who also held the elite distinction.

“Our boxers deserve the best possible support system, and that includes having competent, certified officials in their corner,” GBA president Steve Ninvalle stated.

According to Ninvalle, the seminar reflects on the GBA’s commitment to ensuring that every jab, hook, and decision in the ring is governed with fairness, professionalism and world-class expertise.