Boxing:Five Irish champions will be defending their titles in the semi-finals of the National Senior Championships at the National Stadium tonight.
Each one will be mindful of the importance of remaining at the summit of their divisions ahead of major international events, including the World Championships and the Olympics in Beijing next year.
Three of the five are from the St Michael's Club in Athy, Co Kildare: Eric Donovan at 57kilos, JJ Joyce (60kg) and Roy Sheahan (69kg).
Donovan, a classy operator, is paired off with Willie Casey from the Holy Family Club Lourdes. Joyce goes in against Karl Crawley of the Glasnevin Club, who was a good 18-6 winner over Aaron Sadlier in last week's openers.
Sheahan faces Fergal Redmond of Arklow, a decisive winner over Cork's Paddy Walsh of the St Colman's Club last week.
The strong Darren Sutherland at 75kg will have the ambitious Portlaoise boxer Eddie Healy in his opposite corner. Sutherland was among the most impressive champions last year.
Another reigning champion, Anthony Crampton of St Broghan's, will defend against Martin Sweeney of Drimnagh.
The two Sweeneys from the Drimnagh club, Jimmy and Martin, hold out high hopes of advancing with Austin Carruth, father of Olympic gold medallist Michael, in their corners.
