Hartlepool will host the opening blows of the ABA Championship when the Mayfair JD Sports Domes stage the Tyne, Tees & Wear finals this Saturday.
The thriving Seaton Carew venue has successfully put on the regional section of the Junior ABAs over two days and Saturday night signals the launch of the senior elite competition.
“We couldn’t be happier,” said Tracey Saunders, events manager at the Mayfair JD Sports Domes.
“We know what a special tournament this is for boxing.
“The ABAs mean so much for the boxers, clubs and fans and it’s an honour for the Mayfair JD Sports Domes to stage them.”
Tracey knows better than anyone just how special the ABA Championship is.
Her boxing sons, Bradley and Jeff, have both won England’s elite titles in the past during magnificent amateur careers. Both have now moved on to triumph in the pro game but Tracey says the ABA showpiece provided the basis for their success.
“All the British boxing stars you see now all went through the ABAs,” added the long-serving amateur boxing official.
“Fans will get to see the stars of tomorrow here on Saturday and see them in a venue which is proud to be hosting them.”
Business is thriving at the state of the art Tees Road facility.
The main dome is the home of indoor football while the golf dome is situated next door.
The JD Sports Domes also has a first-class bar and restaurant as well as function rooms for wedding receptions and other occasions.
“There isn’t a place like this anywhere in the region,” added Tracey. “We are not just about sport and our facilities are second to none.”
The weigh in for Saturday’s ABA Championship is between 4pm-6pm. Doors open to fans at 6pm with boxing getting under way at 7pm.
Words: Roy Kelly
