5 medals for Team Canada at the International Boxing Tournament “Balkan”
The third edition of the International Boxing Tournament "Balkan" came to an end on Sunday and the Canadian delegation left its mark, claiming a total of five medals! Indeed, it's a great improvement compared to last year performance as Bianca Paquin (51Kg) was the sole Canadian to step onto the podium.
This year, Caroline Veyre (60Kg) and Marija Curran (81Kg) both reached the finales on Sunday in the hopes to climb on the highest step of the podium. Here's a recap of the final day of competition:
During the 60Kg final, Caroline Veyre faced the Brazilian Beatriz Jasmin Sonny Ferreira in a much anticipated bout. Indeed, the final was the perfect occasion for a rematch as Ferreira had won gold by a split decision of 4-1 against Veyre at the Continental Championships back in June.
However, after three intense rounds, it's the hand of the Brazilian that was once again raised following a unanimous win (5-0). Caroline Veyre wins the Silver medal after an impressive tournament.
As for Marija Curran, she was facing the #9 in the world, Liubov Iusupov, her second Russian opponent of the tournament after defeating Viktoria Krylova in semifinals.
Despite a deducted point and three judges allocating an equal score, Marija Curran won by a 3-2 split decision and was crowned champion in the 81Kg weight category! "I'm delighted to have won the Balkan Cup, but having the opportunity to represent Canada while doing what I love is definitely the best part of this experience. While I wish I could've fought a variety of countries, I was pleased to compete against two Russians. Anyone who has glanced at a history book knows they're tough and we were there for good fights." mentioned Marija Curran upon her return to Canada.
As for Christian Zelenco (Youth, 48Kg), Charlie Cavanagh (Youth, 69Kg) and Sabrina Aubin (57Kg), they all claimed Bronze in their respective division after being defeated in semifinals.
Congratulations to all Canadian boxers for their great performance throughout the tournament!