Competing in her first fight at a championships, she won her bout in the 46kg cadet female novice category.
The two Gisborne clubs had a successful time in the championships at the Great Lake Centre.
For Patu Tahi, Kaiya Hape, 17, won the 60kg youth male section and Jett Larby, 14, won the 48kg cadet male novice category.
Dann Larby, 14, was the 52kg cadet male runner-up and Khadyn Kahukiwa, 11, was the 38-40kg cadet male novice runner-up.
Maria Jeffery was unopposed in the 75kg women’s novice category.
For Hit Pit, Tawhiri Toheriri, 19, a bright prospect in the sport, was runner-up in the 69kg male open division.
Unique-Charlotte Kahukoti, 12, was runner-up in the 70kg cadet division, losing her bout on a split decision.
Genesis Seiuli, 12, lost his 50kg cadet novice bout, his first, but said he would be back for more.
Sheriff, a student at Gisborne Boys’ High School, said it was his second year of fighting.
He enjoyed getting the better of his opponent and throwing punches, but also showing his defensive qualities.
Kahukiwa-Larby said she was proud that her hard work and training sessions had paid off.
“It was the most I’ve ever focused, since it was the championships,” she said.
She enjoys sparring against boys.
“I get angry sometimes — I like to take out my anger on the boys and in the ring.”
Toheriri said he thought he had done enough to win his final bout but lost it on a points decision.
Hit Pit coach Jim Kahukoti said the 19-year-old’s defence was impeccable.
“It was an awesome weekend, an awesome event,” Kahukoti said.
The club, based in Cobden Street, was supported by Sport Gisborne Tairawhiti, the Olympic Pool for respiratory fitness, and Brian Horwell for power training, he said.
Lauretta Winitana organised their fundraising.
Patu Tahi Boxing Club secretary-treasurer Kylie Kahukiwa said clubs from Auckland, Taumarunui, Rotorua, Hastings and Palmerston North were at the championships.
“Overall, it was a good trip.”
Kahukiwa said the club, which has a new home — Live Free Health and Fitness — at the old Army Hall, had support from Gisborne Development Inc and grant money.
The East Coast Boxing Association is hosting a training camp this weekend at Live Free Health and Fitness.
About 25 boxers from Gisborne, Te Araroa, Ruatoria, Hicks Bay, Waimana and Wairoa will be there.
