By David Martinez / Boxing Historian

I have followed boxing now for about half a century and I truly consider myself blessed meeting so many wonderful people in that tenure. The past twenty-five years I have also been blessed being involved in working with amateur fighters in local boxing gyms in which I have met many kids that have delighted in my teaching and expertise.

In August of this year, I, along with Henry Calles, a former amateur fighter and owner of Duke’s Boxing in Isla Vista, California, took one of our young fighters to a show in Lompoc, California. These shows are a showcase for all amateur boxers, male and female, and are simply a treat for boxing fans to come out and support their fighters.

Once at the Lompoc arena, we were preparing our male fighter for his fight. Off in the distance, I couldn’t help but notice a young girl warming up with her trainer prior to her fight. I must admit that I was distracted because of the excellent shadow boxing and mitt work that I observed. I knew right then and there that this girl was special, and so I anxiously waited to see her fight in the ring.

When her bout came, I sat close to ringside and I was very impressed to see this young female boxer do her work in such an amazing style; a beautifully executed left jab and complete focus in the ring. After winning a three round bout by decision, I knew that I wanted to do a feature story for my website to showcase her and what she represents in female amateur boxing. Her sportsmanship and ring generalship is what really impressed me the most.

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