History-maker Ward wins third European gold medal

At the age of just 23, Moate boxer Joe Ward has today (Saturday) secured his third gold medal at a European senior boxing championships. 

The light heavyweight was already the only Irish boxer ever to win two European golds, and he added to that achievement with a unanimous points decision victory over Russian Muslim Gadzhimagomedov in the Ukraine.

The win caps a hugely impressive tournament for the local man. Ward produced some classy displays as he outpointed boxers from Slovakia, Scotland, and Italy prior to today's final.

He got off to a positive start against his Russian opponent this afternoon and drew on his experience and ringcraft in order remain on top throughout. 

Ward won his first European senior gold in 2011, at the age of 17, and repeated that accomplishment in 2015. In 2013, he exited the tournament early after sustaining a dislocated knee at the end of his opening bout.

In addition to Ward's gold medal the Irish team will return from the Ukraine with two bronze medals won by Kurt Walker and Brendan Irvine.Â