Seventh heaven for talented Robyn Kelly
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Gordon Ward, Robyn and Camillus Kelly, pictrued following Royn’s great win in the All-Ireland U22 final on Saturday night in Dublin.Image 2 of 3
Robyn Kelly pictured with her proud parents Linda Wallace and Camillus Kelly (coach), following last Saturday’s victory at the National Stadium, Dublin.Image 3 of 3
Camillus Kelly, Robyn Kelly, Liam Morley Brerton and Josefien Betist pictured following Saturday’s finals at the National Boxing Stadium, Dublin. Liam’s sparring classes proved excellent in preparing for the finals.Ballynacargy boxer Robyn Kelly won her seventh All-Ireland title at the National Stadium, Dublin last Saturday when she out-classed her Neilstown opponent to capture the under 22 title.
Kelly (18) produced a strong, skilful display and forced her opponent to take a standing count twice in the opening round before the referee stopped the contest, declaring the Ballynacargy boxer the winner.
Her delighted dad and coach, Camillus Kelly said it's a tremendous victory for Robyn and comes on the back of a considerable amount of training and preparation.
“We didn’t know much about her opponent in Saturday’s final, but Robyn showed great strength on the night. She stopped her in the first two minutes; she was just too powerful,” he said.
The empathic nature of Kelly’s success surprised even her own supporters as she has a number of years remaining at the under 22 grade.
“It was a surprise, but she is in super condition. She is punching with great strength and power and the training is really paying off. She is very dedicated to boxing and it’s great to see her getting the reward for the great effort she is putting in,” sad Camillus Kelly.
Robyn was very keen to add to her roll of honour, especially with some big opportunities for Ireland lying ahead later in the year.
“She really wanted this; it was a big step-up to win an under 22 title. This was her first at that level. It should lead to big things for her,” said her proud father and coach.
“Hopefully now it will open the door to further opportunities for her and she gets on the Irish team for international events, maybe even the under 22 team for later in the year. They are competing in the European championships later in the year.”
Saturday’s success in Dublin comes on the back of some memorable days in the Leinster championships and means the small Ballynacargy club now has three Leinster champions and one All-Ireland winner in their ranks.
“This is the best success the club has enjoyed, following on from the three Leinster titles that have been won. Ann all three Leinster winners have their All-Irelands to look forward to at Easter,” he said.
“It's brilliant; we never imagined we would have that many titles at the start of the year.”