2016 marked the 9th edition of  the AIBA Women’s World Championships that took place from May 19-27 th in Astana, Kazakhstan. This major tournament regrouped 236 boxers from more than 70 countries, including eight Canadian boxers. Although the team had some tough competition ahead, they came prepared to face the best boxers in the world, which was reflected in the results obtained. Here is a recap of our Canadians’ performances during the championship:

For the three Olympic weight categories (51 Kg, 60 Kg, and 75 Kg), the outcomes in the World Championships were crucial as 12 quota places were available for the 3 Olympic weight divisions (4 in flyweight, 4 in lightweight and 4 in middleweight).

Mandy Bujold (51 Kg) and Ariane Fortin (75 Kg) had both already qualified for the Rio 2016 during the American Olympic Qualifiers in Argentina in March. Their goal during the World Championships was to improve their respective world ranking and evaluate the competition for the Olympic Games. Unfortunately, their progression in the World Championships game to an end when two future Olympians lost in eights-of-finals. Mandy lost 1-2 against Sandra Drabik (Pol) while Ariane was defeated 0-2 by Khadija Mardi (Mar). With 70 days left before the Olympic Games, the two boxers are now focusing on their last preparation for the Games.

For Caroline Veyre (60 Kg), these championships were her last opportunity to qualify for the 2016 Olympic Games. She  arrived prepared and focused for the competition in the hopes of earning one of the 4 tickets for Rio in her weight category. In order to finish in the Top 4, Caroline had to win 4 bouts to reach the semifinals’ round. Unfortunately, the 60 Kg Canadian representative lost in quarterfinals against Estelle Mossely (FRA), one victory away from the Olympic dream. Despite the end of her 2016 Olympic Journey, Caroline leaves the competition with her head held high. ” I am very proud of myself. I gave Mossely a good opposition, especially at the end of the fight when I started to attack her. I don’t have any regrets. ” mentioned the boxer after her last bout.

Since the other weight divisions are not yet present at the Olympic Games, the World Championships represent the biggest competition in the world for these boxers. The tournamenet was also a great opportunity for the athletes to gain experience at the international level to prepare for the next Olympic cycle.

Erica Adjei (54 Kg), Sabrina Aubin (57 Kg) and Alison Greey (81 Kg) had a great progression in the biggest world competition. However, their progression came to a halt in eight-of-finals as they were defeated by their opponents.

Kim Clavel (48 Kg) had an exceptional tournament as she competed all the way up to the quarterfinals, where she was defeated by Yong Gum U (PKR). The Quebec boxer is especially proud of her victory in eight-of-finals against Steluta Duta (Rom), who is currently ranked 3^rd in the world. “I am very proud of myself for my performances in this competition and I have gained a lot of confidence knowing that I belong in the Top 8 in the world.” said the 48 Kg representative.

Sara Kali (64 Kg) also had a spectacular competition during the World Championships as she progressed through the draw sheet all the way to the semifinals. Her personal objective for the tournament was to finish on the podium, which she successfully achieved by claiming the bronze medal. ” I am coming back to Canada with a lot of things to work on, but one thing is now certain, I know I belong amongst the international elite! ” mentioned the boxer after the defeat in semifinals against Kellie Harrington (IRL). Bringing back the only Canadian medal from the World Championships, Sara has every right to be proud of her performances.

The Canadian team had a great progression on the International scene. With an impressive start to the competition of 8 victories in 8 bouts, it was a first in Boxing Canada’s history. They have all gained experience and knowledge while competing against the best boxers in the world.  ” We knew it was going to be a very tough tournament, however, the team’s objective was to do its best and leave it all in the ring. I believe the boxers did that even though we didn’t win some bouts that I thought we should have. Sara Kali obviously had an exceptional tournament winning bronze and we are very proud of her and of our entire team. It’s now time to turn our attention to Rio and bring home medals.” said Pat Fiacco, president of Boxing Canada.

 

 

Posted on: May 27, 2016