BOXING: Cookstown boxers strike like lightning

Both lads picked up their second Irish title of the year in the national cadet championships and they are now in the running to represent Ireland in the European schoolboy championships being held in Russia next month.

The two boxers were in semi-final action on Friday night, with McGuckin pitched in first to face three times Irish champion Peter Keenan from the Darndale club.

And once again the confident young man stepped up to the plate and produced an extraordinary display to win all three rounds in a very convincing manner.

Then, just a matter of moments later, it was Quinn’s turn to try to emulate his team-mate and he also stylishly produced the goods.

After a tough three rounds with Michael McDonagh it was a double final for the club once again.

Onto Saturday and what was to come represented no fear for the Tyrone fighters, McGuckin facing another current Irish champion Jason Myers from Titans in what was to prove to be a tougher day at the office. Yet again McGuckin adapted to cope with what was in front of him and there was only one outcome as he secured a second national title in the space of five months.

Quinn, who was up against highly-rated Adam McEvoy of Spartans ABC, was certainly on his a game, landing the cleaner shots and forcing the fight in his favour to pick up the title on the judges cards.

So it was another wonderful day for the boxers and club. To win four national titles inside one year is certainly some achievement for all involved - boxers, families, coaches and supporters to sponsors.