Ali eyes Moscow mission (From Keighley News)

Ali eyes Moscow mission

11:10pm Thursday 2nd July 2009

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Boxing sensation Muhammad Ali is dreaming of Europe after ending a memorable season in style.

The Keighley 12-year-old, representing England schoolboys, convincingly brushed aside the challenge of Irish national champion Gary Keogh in County Waterford.

It was his 16th triumph of an unforgettable year at 38kg level, which has included success at the Royal Navy national schoolboys championships and another tri-nation tournament in Wales.

Ali, a pupil at Ermysted’s School in Skipton, is now keeping his fingers crossed that his triumphant run will earn him a coveted spot in the Great Britain squad for the European schoolboy championships to be held in Moscow in October.

Because of the £1,500-per-head costs, only ten youngsters will be making the trip. No official announcement has been made so far about the team but it is understood that those who performed well in Ireland will be strong contenders so Ali is likely to be on the short-list.

Coach Keith Tate, who trains Ali at the Cleckheaton Boxing Academy, said: “He’s going from strength to strength. It was his 16th bout of the season at the weekend and he controlled it, winning very easily.”

Tate is hoping that news of Ali’s on-going success may encourage a sponsor to help fund the expenses involved in taking the youngster to the different competitions.

He admitted: “With all the travelling everywhere with Ali, it costs the club a fortune. Napoleon’s Casino are our sponsors and continue to be fantastic but we’re hoping someone may be able to help us with Ali.”

Potential sponsors can contact Tate on 07979-030406.

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