Deanne's Road to Rio

I have been boxing for 6 going on 7 years now and have 5 New Zealand Titles to my name. I am not new to competing in the World arena and have participated in other international tournaments in Tahiti, Taiwan and Bulgaria. I brought a Bronze medal home from Taiwan and have beaten the American Womens’ #2 - as well as the Tahitian Womens’ #1. I gained invaluable experience at the Junior/Youth Female World Boxing Championships in Bulgaria although defeated by my opponent from Ireland, who then went on to claim the Silver medal.

I recently returned from China where I competed in the Oceania Boxing Championship, being the first attempt to qualify for the Olympics. Unfortunately, I did not make it through from this event. However, there is no doubt the we (New Zealand) are right up there with the best in the world.

I have one last chance to qualify, that is, by competing at the Women's World Boxing Championships in Kazakhstan this month. To secure my spot on the Olympic Squad I must place in the Top 4 at this event. This is the most important event I could ever hope to attend as an amateur boxer and it is something my coach and I have worked towards since obtaining my very first NZ title 6 years ago. Please help me fulfill my dream and make not only my family proud but make NZ proud.