The best GB team I’ve been in.
Those are the words of Olympic medal prospect Pat McCormack ahead of the first steps on the Road to Tokyo.
McCormack is just days away from taping up his gloves for the first time at the European Olympic Qualifier in London.
It is some statement from the 24-year-old, given the success of Team GB boxers post London 2012
British boxers collected six medals at the men and women’s World Championships last autumn, when Lauren Price struck gold with McCormack picking up silver in Russia.
“This is the best GB team I’ve been in,” Pat told punch-lines ahead of the competition which begins on Saturday.
“I think we’re better than Rio, but it’s the medals that do the talking.
“Look at the first European Games, we got one gold and two bronze but the next we got one gold, one silver and four bronze.
“It’s the same with the worlds when we got a silver and two bronze in Russia compared to a bronze in the previous one, with the girls winning a gold and two bronze at their championship.”
So does McCormack think him and his 12 team-mates not only have the ability to qualify but challenge for the podium in Japan in the summer?
“Definitely,” he said emphatically.
“I believe every member of that team is capable of medalling.”
The Copperbox is the host arena on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park from Saturday through to March 24.
Some 350 men and women, from as many as 50 countries, will be in the capital for the event, which will produce 77 qualifier for Tokyo.
Pat will be joined by twin – and fellow Birtley ABC star – Luke in the qualifier. Joining the McCormacks will be world medalists, Peter McGrail and Ben Whittaker plus Galal Yafai, Lewis Richardson, Cheavon Clarke, and Frazer Clarke. Price will spearhead the female challenge alongside Karriss Artingstall, Charley Davison, Caroline Dubois and Rosie Eccles
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: GB Boxing
