Ryan crowned boxing champion

Ettalong resident Ryan McShane has been crowned Australian Amateur Boxing Champion in the 44kg division at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra recently.

The 14-year-old Brisbane Water Secondary College student said he was "very happy" with the result and looked forward to pursuing boxing as a professional athlete when he graduates from high school in a few years time.

McShane received a $500 sponsorship grant from the Central Coast Regional Organisation of Councils to participate in the national tournament late last year.

In October, McShane won the NSW 42kg schoolboy state title, winning him the right to represent the state at the national amateur boxing championships.

McShane said he was not yet old enough to qualify for international competition but said he would be training hard to qualify for future tournaments once he reached the age of 16.

"One day I hope to compete on the international stage at championship and Olympic Game title events," McShane said.

"I first started boxing for fitness but soon realised I enjoyed it and was good at it.

"Boxing is a great way to stay in shape and can be enjoyed by anyone."

McShane said he was keen to compete in Sydney competitions next month after a break over Christmas.

Clare Graham, 20 Jan 2009 Interviewee: Ryan McShane, Ettalong