YOUNG Thai boxing prospect George Rowand is set to realise his dream of competing in the World Championships after receiving funding from a Redditch-based logistics company.
The 12-year-old has been sponsored by Transmec UK to help cover the costs of travelling to the event, which takes place in Italy at the end of October.
Recognised as one of the best junior fighters in the UK, George has been a member of Redditch’s Thaitans Martial Arts Academy since the age of six.
The St Bede’s Middle School pupil trains five times a week and so far has won 29 of his 35 fights. His long-term goal is to fight in the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
Whilst he has beaten opponents from Spain, Belgium and Holland who have travelled to the UK, the trip to Italy will be his first time abroad. He will be accompanied by his mother Becci and trainer Kev Dorman.
George said: “It’s very exciting to be going to Italy and to have the chance to compete against some of the best fighters in the world.
“I am really grateful to Transmec for their generous support.”
To help cover the £2,500 costs, George has already completed a sponsored triathlon and packed bags at Morrisons and Matalan, while St Bede’s also organised a cake sale.
Transmec UK is aiming to provide ongoing funding for George and also sponsors Redditch-based motorcycle racer Trystan Finocchiaro who has just started to compete in the World Superbike Championship.
General manager of Transmec UK, John Simkins, said: “We are extremely impressed by George’s dedication and determination. He has the talent and potential to achieve great results and we’ll be monitoring his progress with interest.”
