Jeffries fans are pleased as punch
Aug 15 2008 by Kim Carmichael, The Journal
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SUPPORTERS of North East boxing champion Tony Jeffries, who is a few steps away from Olympic glory, spoke last night of their gold medal hopes.
Following yesterday’s win against Eleider Alvarez, of Columbia, in the Light Heavy competition in Beijing, Tony, of Sunderland, is set to battle it out in the quarter-finals in a clash with Hungary’s Imre Szello.
Tony’s father and manager Phil, speaking from Beijing, said: “I’m just absolutely thrilled.” And Sunderland Football Club chairman Niall Quinn also spoke out to cheer Tony on.
Last night, Phil said: “The support I’ve had from people is amazing, I’ve had about 500 texts from back home, the phone just hasn’t stopped. It’s been great. I’m going to see Tony tonight at the Olympic Lodge, where the families gather, we might well have a few pints to celebrate.”
For Phil, his 23-year-old son is close to fulfilling not only his own ambitions, but also those of his colleagues back home. “I know that the boys down at the club will be really happy for Tony,” said Phil, speaking of Sunderland Amateur Boxing Club, where Tony trains.
“He’s had injuries in the past that have meant that he hasn’t been able to fight, but he’s worked hard and if he could win a medal it would be fantastic, both for Tony and for the North East. It would change his life.”
Mr Quinn said: “I’m absolutely delighted for Tony. I watched a replay of the fight first thing this morning and realised just how close it was.
“We’re thrilled for Tony and his family and we’re proud to see him representing Sunderland so positively. I know how much work and dedication Tony and his trainers have put in to prepare for this, so to reach the quarter-finals is some reward for that already. It would be fantastic to see him reach the semi-finals and, for me personally, I’d dearly like to see him meet (Irish boxer) Kenny Egan in the final.”
Supporters at Japanese car giant Nissan’s factory on Wearside are also cheering on the region’s best Olympic hope. Factory worker Shane Fenwick, from South Shields, said: “I wish him all the best, I’ll be watching how he gets on.” Fellow Nissan worker Richard Craig, from Tunstall in Sunderland, added: “I know Tony’s trained really hard for this and I wish him all the best in bringing home the gold for Great Britain.
“It’s great to see the local lads doing well and representing the region.”
Tony, the least-heralded of the British team, stands one win away from a guaranteed bronze medal. He fights Szello, who he recently defeated 11-10, on Tuesday.
