European bronze medal for young Athlone boxer
There was quite a welcome recently at Olympic boxer John Joe Nevin’s gym in Mullingar for Athlone teenager Pat Stokes, who made Ireland proud at the Under-17 European Boxing Championships in Germany.
Competing in the 46kg division, Stokes battled through tough competition to secure a bronze medal, marking a major achievement in his young career.
“We were delighted for him,” said John Joe, who has been coaching the talented 15-year-old from Athlone at his Mullingar Shuffler Boxing Club on Patrick Street since earlier this year.
Already a three-time Irish champion before joining Nevin’s gym, Stokes added another Irish title this year before heading to Berlin. At the European Championships, he impressed with a 5-0 quarter-final victory over Thomas Lido of Italy, before narrowly losing in the semi-final to Romania’s Birham-Pasa Iuseim by unanimous decision, which automatically earned him a bronze medal under the tournament’s format.
The Under-17 European Championships, held in Kienbaum near Berlin, brought together the continent’s top youth boxers, with competitors from more than 30 countries vying for medals. The championships are considered one of the most prestigious stages for young amateurs, providing valuable international experience and a stepping stone to senior-level competition.
Stokes was part of a strong Irish team, which had an excellent overall showing, winning at least ten medals, including multiple bronzes and silver finalists. His performance contributed to that tally and reinforced Ireland’s reputation as a country producing top young boxing talent.
Although Nevin’s gym only opened this year, it has already seen its members win five Irish titles, with Stokes’ European bronze adding to its growing reputation. “Anyone looking to come in and join us is welcome,” John Joe said, inviting aspiring boxers to be part of the club.
Stokes’ achievement highlights him as one of Ireland’s most promising young boxers, and the experience at a major European tournament will be invaluable as he aims for further success on both national and international stages.