The only is way is up for bridge boxer lauren

It was another highly productive weekend in the ring for Rochfortbridge’s Lauren Hogan.

The 18 year old marked her debut with the Irish senior boxing squad with a comprehensive victory over Ukrainian fighter Olga Minhenko in the National Stadium on Friday night.

Despite her older opponent’s greater experience at international level, Hogan dominated their bout from the first bell to last and was well worth her unanimous points victory. Speaking to the Westmeath Examiner, Lauren said that while it was challenging she enjoyed her first involvement with the senior Irish squad.

“It was a big change. The level is completely different. They are a lot stronger, faster and fitter.”

Lauren won her first senior title in late January recording a unanimous victory over Maeve Clarke in the 48kg decider. What makes her recent achievements in the ring all the more impressive is that she only took up boxing two and a half years ago. Since then she has won an Offaly title, a Leinster championship and an U18 national title.

She has also represented her country with distinction at underage level on numerous occasions and last July won a bronze medal at the European Youth and Junior Championships in Italy.

Lauren is currently boxing out of St Brigid’s BC in Edenderry under the tutelage of Martin McBride and Liam Brereton. She has also received some tips from Mullingar boxing great Gabriel Robbins, who believes that she has a big future in the sport.