Irish amateur boxing has always prided itself on producing boxers of a high calibre in the lower weight divisions and that is why it is disappointing to note that only 10 boxers have entered for the three lowest weights in the national senior finals which begin at the National Stadium tonight. There are only three entries at light fly and fly and only four at bantam. Things improve somewhat at feather with six entered and at lightweight where there are seven.

Perhaps it is because the Celtic Tiger is producing a heavier type of progeny that there are eight entries at light welterweight, 10 at welterweight, 10 also at light middle and the same number again in the heavyweight division.

The national championships take on an added dimension this year because of the Olympic Games in Sydney in September and October. So far no Irish boxer has qualified but the next three weekends at the National Stadium should give some indication of the chances of those who harbour hopes. The finals are fixed for January 28th.