Pair apply for pro-am licence

Trainer Jack (centre) with boxer Darren Stubbs (left) and assistant trainer Gary Ford.

Boxing:

JACK Doughty’s eventual successors at the Tara stable in Shaw have applied to the ABA to become Pro-Am.

The move would allow Doughty’s current assistants, Gary Ford (38) and Darren Stubbs (40), to train amateurs and professionals under one roof.

Although he has no immediate plans to retire, 80-year-old Doughty has discussed the gym’s future with his sidekicks and is happy for them to eventually take control.

He said: “Darren and Gary are both keen on the idea of offering their time and support to professionals and amateurs.

“They have submitted an application to the ABA, but it is a slow process, not least because the ABAs

tournament has been the main focus over the last few weeks.

“Gary expects to hear something quite soon. They would like to train children from a young age, although I think it is important not to start too young. Once you reach 11 I believe you can start to box in the gym.”