TOWNLAND Boxing Club enjoyed a night to remember as three of their own were crowned Ulster Senior Champions, with brothers Terry and Lee Hanna joined by clubmate Conor McCrory in completing a remarkable hat-trick of titles.
All three produced impressive performances in their respective finals to bring senior honours back to the Glenavy club, capping years of hard work and dedication inside the Townland gym.
Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of the achievement is that the trio have been part of the club since the age of six. From taking their first steps in the ring as young boys, Terry, Lee and Conor have progressed through the ranks to reach the pinnacle of Ulster senior boxing.
For the Hanna brothers, sharing the occasion on the same night made an already special achievement all the more memorable, while McCrory's victory completed a clean sweep for the club.
Much of the credit must go to coach Tommy Quinn, who has overseen their development from an early age, with Ryan Quinn also playing his part in the corner throughout the championship finals.
Reflecting on a historic night for the club, Tommy Quinn said: “This is the proudest moment in Townland’s history. These three lads walked through our doors as young children and now they’re walking back through those same doors as Ulster Senior Champions.
“To see all three of them achieve this on the same night is something very special. They’ve put years of hard work into their boxing and they deserve every bit of this success. I couldn’t be prouder of them.
“When you coach young lads from that age, you watch them grow up, you see the effort they put in and the sacrifices they make. To see them reach this level and bring three Ulster titles back to Townland is an incredible feeling.”
For a small rural club in Glenavy, the achievement represents something much bigger than three championship belts. It is a reflection of the work carried out behind the scenes, the commitment of its coaches and the opportunities provided to young people within the local community.
Townland have watched three young boys grow into accomplished senior boxers, and to see all three reach the top of Ulster boxing on the same evening is a reward for everyone who has played a part in their journey.
Three boxers, three Ulster titles and a night that will live long in the history of Townland Boxing Club.
