Ellender lines up final date

Jack Ellender

BOXING: LOCAL sensation Jack Ellender has defied the odds by reaching the final of the ABA National Extra Championship at Warrington on March 14.

The Oldham Boxing and Personal Development Centre youngster defeated the tough Jay Sullivan (Long Lane Club, Liverpool) in his home city in Saturday’s semi-final.

Jack had to overcome an opponent who boasted reach and height advantage and who had been well schooled in terms of technical ability.

As always, Jack analysed his opponent in the first round and found his reach advantage a problem.

But in the second round, he managed to combine pressure with evasive footwork to take control of the fight.

Sullivan showed his class in the final round, switching tactics and applying pressure to Jack, but the Oldham youngster was equal to the task and stepped up a gear to claim a superb victory in a contest which would have made a worthy final.

Jack is only one step away from being crowned a national champion in his first competitive season which speaks volumes for his talent and dedication.

His success also underlines the aspirations and objectives of OBPDC, who have a team of athletes ready to make their mark, not just in boxing but within the community, thanks to a programme of personal development.