Graphic for OECS Boxing Championship being held in the first week of August.
CASTRIES, St. Lucia--The countdown to the much-anticipated 2025 OECS Boxing Championship is underway, as the Saint Lucia Boxing Association (SLBA), Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) hosted a press conference on Thursday, July 24, at the SLTA offices.
The championship, scheduled for August 1-3, is being organised by the SLBA, in partnership with the OECS Commission. Also providing support to the event are the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports, St. Lucia, the SLTA, the Embassy of France to the OECS, the Saint Lucia Olympic Committee and the National Lotteries Authority, Saint Lucia.
SLBA President, David "Shakes" Christopher, emphasised the high calibre of athletes expected to participate in the 2025 OECS Boxing Championship. He also noted that while the event is an OECS championship, the organisers have extended invitations to countries outside of the OECS to ensure regional athletes gain valuable experience and competitive match-ups against international opponents.
"We have some very good boxers coming. Most of the boxers prepared for the Youth Olympics. We want to thank some of the countries, who [are not from – Ed.] the OECS, but as we make the OECS Invitational to get a match-up for the boxers, we have to go outside of the OECS."
Senior Technical Specialist – Education, OECS Commission, Lisa Sargusingh-Terrance, highlighted that the championship aligns with a mandate from OECS Member States to revive regional sporting events as a platform to strengthen youth development, community identity and regional pride. Referencing the outcomes of the inaugural OECS Council of Ministers: Youth and Sports, which called for renewed support for both traditional and emerging sports, she stated: "Through this championship, we are showcasing what it means to really invest in the social capital of our region by creating what we see as safe, structured spaces where our young people can really thrive."
SLTA Marketing Manager, Christopher Gustave, highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for youth, junior and elite athletes to develop their skills and build confidence. He further underscored the tourism and promotional impact of the event, stating: "But beyond this string, the event has real impact. It drives visitation, fills hotel rooms, creates content, promotes regional integration and inspires a new generation of athletes."
The press conference also featured remarks from Dr. Joseph “Reds” Perreira, Past President of the SLBA, and Dane Magliore, Sports Officer with the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports, St. Lucia, both underscoring the importance of supporting youth in sports.
The 2025 OECS Boxing Championships will be held at the Rodney Bay Pavilion, St. Lucia, from August 1 to 3. ~ OECS ~
