The Cayman Islands Boxing Association has revamped its setup.
Whilst Olympic hopeful Tafari Ebanks is away at an elite training camp in Sweden with coach Norman Wilson, the boxing association board elected a new board. Following the resignation of Terence Spencer as president in January, the boxing association was left without a figurehead.
However, they continued to function under the leadership of acting president Ann-Marie Byrd, launching outreach programs for children and adults in the Bodden Town Civic Centre and hosting impressive demonstrations at the Island Air Luxury Party.
CIBA’s new board is spearheaded by women. The four integral board positions are now held by Byrd as president, Leyla Jackson moves up from secretary-general to vice-president, Emma Wadsworth moves from director to be secretary-general and Shernett Watson remains as treasurer.
Also, Jarladth Travers moves from director to second vice-president and the other board member positions held by Emily McGhee, Sharon Francis, Dawn Steele and Chrissie Harford remain the same.
The association hopes that the appointment of women to leadership roles in a male-dominated sport locally will encourage more women and girls to try boxing, either just for fitness or to compete at the amateur level.
Jackson said, “I got involved with the boxing association just from going to the gym for the fitness classes.
“Boxing fitness really is a great workout, especially with Batabano coming up. It is surprising how many women actually come and take advantage of our boxing training classes and friendly, encouraging atmosphere.”
Byrd has a wealth of experience in the sport and has helped organize several professional boxing events over the years.
She has been a member of CIBA for several years. “Children are the future of this country and I am very passionate about this sport as it gives the youth an opportunity to develop self discipline, leadership and confidence,” said Byrd. “We welcome newcomers and will be working diligently to enhance the program.”
As well as voting in a new board, the CIBA has appointed Silverlight’s Mark Woollard as commercial manager, handling all sales and marketing related matters and reporting to the board.
For more information about how to get involved, email [email protected].
Whilst Olympic hopeful Tafari Ebanks is away at an elite training camp in Sweden with coach Norman Wilson, the boxing association board elected a new board.
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