Boxing: Chen's firepower lands gold medal

Kyle Chen training at Kerikeri Community Fitness. Photo / Peter de Graaf

Kerikeri boxer Kyle Chen has punched his way to the top.

The 14-year-old Kerikeri High School student returned from the North Island Golden Gloves Boxing Tournament with a gold medal in the 66kg Junior male open division.

The two time Golden Gloves champion and New Zealand title holder, representing Spartan Boxing Club and North Harbour Boxing Association, used his superior height and reach to dominate his final against Nehe Grace (16) of Ruatoria.

Not only was Chen able to dominate the action at long-range, with fast and powerful shots to head and body, he also controlled the fight up close.

As his shorter opponent attempted to get inside he was pushed back by Kyle's crisp hooks and uppercuts to the body. The action continued for the full three rounds, but there was really only one boxer in it as Chen dominated on all levels against his very game opponent.

Chen's coach Harry Otty says "he's pretty dedicated for a young lad".

"He's a good athlete all round and has a fantastic physique for a boxer."

Chen is now focused on developing his skills further in preparation for the Junior World Championships in St. Petersburg, Russia this September.

If all goes to plan in Russia, Otty says a Commonwealth Games spot could be on the horizon.

"He's beaten everyone in his age group. He's got very good potential for his age, is improving all the time and listens to everything you tell him to do."