Kian Thomas: back with gold

Published: 27 June, 2013
by STEVE BARNETT

ST Pancras Amateur Boxing Club is looking fighting fit after four tough talents punched their way onto the winners’ podium.

On Sunday seniors Violeta Milanova and Kian Thomas both reigned in the ring at the Haringey Box Cup, which was held in Alexandra Palace.

The victory was especially sweet for Violeta who was stepping between the ropes for the very first time.

The 27-year-old, who works as a nanny in West Hampstead, made a dream start to her amateur career as she beat Rebecca Stone on points in the 47kg division.

Violeta was delighted with winning a gold medal just three months after joining the Kentish Town-based gym.

“I really enjoyed it,” she said. “I was waiting for the nerves to kick in but they never did. I was really confident going into the fight. I’d trained hard and know that I’m good so I expected to win, but it certainly wasn’t easy.”

Club-mate Kian also struck gold as he returned to the ring for the first time in two years. The 21-year-old, who lives in Kentish Town, went into the final in confident mood having already gained a unanimous points win over Brian Simpson in the semi-finals. And the final got even better as he stopped James Norris in the fourth round of their 67kg contest.

“I believed I could win, but to actually do it after a two-year break was mind-blowing,” Kian said afterwards.

“When you’re training in the gym you always think that you have what it takes to win things, but it’s only when you’re in the ring that you prove it.”

The Saints’ success didn’t stop there as two of the clubs’ promising young juniors also won titles.

Queen’s Crescent duo Joe Peet, 14, and Louis Roncari, 12, were crowned champions at the Redditch Box Cup.

After winning the 60-63kg weight category Joe, who goes to Hampstead School, said, “It’s the first title I have won for the club. I can’t wait to win more gold medals next season.

“I’ll be training really hard throughout the summer to be sharp for September.”

Fighting in the Under-38kg division, Louis landed his second gold medal in a matter of weeks having also won the Minors Championships.

“Now that I’ve started winning titles opponents will take me more seriously,” said the William Ellis pupil. “From now on I’ll always have to be at my best to keep on winning.”