Victor Olisa, the Haringey borough commander, gets in the spirit
A boxing tournament hosted by Haringey police has been described as the largest of its kind in the world.
500 competitors took part in the Haringey Box Cup at Alexandra Palace between 18 and 22 June and there were 320 bouts involving competitors between the ages of 17 and 35.
There were participants from across London, as well as from Canada, Cuba, France, Thailand, Sweden, Germany and Holland, in addition to teams from the British Army, Navy and RAF.
Victor Olisa, the borough commander for Haringey police, said he was immensely proud to be involved with the event: “I firmly believe [it] makes a tangible difference to the lives of many young people.
“Sport is an excellent conduit to bring young people together and instil in them confidence, self-respect and discipline that can help them to make the best of their potential.”
Now in its seventh year, the Haringey Police Community Amateur Boxing Club launched the annual event with their Youth Day, which saw in excess of a thousand children involved. This year’s main Box Cup event attracted crowds of over 7,000 people.
The club was founded by Gerry Willmott, a former police officer.
“I am beaming with pride and still cannot believe the sheer scale that this event gained over the four days,” he said.
“The momentum this year has been overwhelming and it’s a testimony that our boxing club helps keep young people off the streets and away from the risk of becoming involved in crime.
“My thanks go to all involved specifically Brian John and Terri Kelly without whom the event would not have happened, let alone be the success it is.”
Further information about Haringey Police and Community Boxing Club and the Open Boxing Cup can be found at www.haringeyboxingclub.com