Tullamore's Gráinne Walsh, in blue, celebrates after she was announced as the winner of her 66kg semi final against Poland's Aneta Rygielska at the Leszek Drogosz Memorial international tournament today (Thursday).

Delight for Offaly boxer Gráinne as she reaches final of tournament in Poland

Adrian Cusack

Published: Thu 21 Sep 2023, 4:43 PM

Last updated: Thu 21 Sep 2023, 4:59 PM

Offaly's Gráinne Walsh today guaranteed herself at least a silver medal at a multi-nations boxing tournament in Poland.

The Tullamore woman is part of a team of eight Irish boxers competing at the Leszek Drogosz Memorial international tournament in the Polish city of Kielce.

In her opening bout, a quarter final at 66kg, Gráinne won on a unanimous points decision against an opponent from Slovakia on Tuesday.

In the semi-final this afternoon (Thursday), she faced Aneta Rygielska of Poland for the third time this year.

In both of their previous meetings, in February and May, the Polish boxer was awarded wins on points, but today Gráinne attacked effectively from the very start.

Her sharp flurries of punches caused problems for Rygielska throughout. After the final bell there was relief and jubilation for the local 27-year-old when she was deservedly announced as the winner on a split decision.

There was also an Irish victory in the other semi-final at 66kg, as Roscommon's Lisa O'Rourke outpointed Emilie Sonvico of France.

Offaly's Gráinne Walsh (second from left) and Roscommon's Lisa O'Rourke (left) pictured in Poland this week. Photo: IABA.

Some 81 boxers from 10 countries (Ireland, England, Wales, Belgium, France, Serbia, Slovenia, Lithuania, Poland and Trinidad & Tobago) are competing at the Leszek Drogosz tournament, which concludes on Sunday.