Belfast trio named in Irish team for Women's World Boxing Championships

Three Belfast boxers have been named in the Ireland team set to compete at next month's Women's World Championships.

The competition will take place at the Sinan Erdem Dome in Istanbul, Turkey from May 6-21.

Caitlin Fryers (Immaculata), Carly McNaul (Ormeau Road) and Michaela Walsh (Emerald) are in the nine-person squad, which also includes Amy Broadhurst of St Bronagh's ABC based in Rostrevor.

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Team Ireland has enjoyed a successful year so far in international competition, with 29 medals in all – these include 2 golds at Strandja, 3 golds at the European U22 Championships, 5 at the Golden Belt/Nicolae Linca tournament and 3 at the European Youth Championship.

One notable absentee from the squad is Tokyo Olympic champion Kellie Harrington who sustained an injury during training in Assisi, Italy.

“I’m devastated not to be competing at the Worlds," Harrington said.

"Training was going great, and I know I was the woman to beat in Turkey but– timing is everything, and there just isn’t enough time to heal before boxing starts. I have to prioritise my long-term health and fitness.

"Qualifying for Paris is still the goal. I’ll be rooting for all our Team Ireland boxers at the Worlds – it’s a strong, skilful team”