Please release for circulation, today as soon as possible. __________________________________

June 4, 2008

For Immediate Release:

MEDIA ADVISORY

Ontario Women Boxers Set For Istanbul

Ontario is sending 6 strong female boxers, all on the National team to Istanbul, Turkey for the Ahmet Comert Cup. This international tournament will be held from June 9-15.

Many of the female competitors are coming off really big wins recently. Last week saw Mandy Bujold beat the world bronze medalist from India in a dual match. Collectively the Ontario females beat Team India, ranked #1 in the world, 4-1 in Sudbury and 6-3 in Windsor. “We will all be there at our best. We know this is a tough tournament and we can’t wait to face the rest of the world and show them what we’ve got!” says Mary Spencer. Mary is currently on the National team and was Boxing Canada’s 2004, 2005, 2007 Female Athlete of the Year.

Coach Gord Apolloni feels the same way. “It is a pleasure to work with athletes, boxers, who really want to win. This is the second year in a row attending this tournament for this team.  It is encouraging to hear that they, the team, are looking forward to have podium performances at this event. This event is excellent in preparing for the world championships in November.  I can’t wait to see this enthusiasm become reality…I believe in this team”.

This tournament will be a taste of the competition to be expected when they compete next at the Women’s World Championships in China this Fall.

Canadian Delegation for the 23rd Ahmet Comert Cup – Istanbul, Turkey

Athletes:

48kg Jacqueline Park (Hamilton, ON)
50kg Mandy Bujold (Kitchener, ON)
52kg Nathalie Forget
54kg Melissa Guillemette
57kg Sandra Bizier
60kg Jennifer McConnell
63kg Katie Dunn (Windsor, ON)
66kg Mary Spencer (Windsor, ON)
70kg Arianne Fortin
75kg Amber Konikow (Sudbury, ON)

Coaches:

Gord Apolloni (Sudbury, Ontario)
Francois Duguay

Official:

Frank Fiacco