Bombers’ captain turns pro

The Sydney Olympic Games fiasco is having a tearing effect on the national amateur boxing squad.

The perceived official apathy and neglect by members of the team is ripping the squad apart with two of the boxers turning their eyes to professional boxing where they believe their interest will best be catered for.

It was James Toney who first gave up his amateur status days after the squad returned from Sydney, now it is the captain of the squad, Charles Adamu, who feels he’s had enough with the amateur boxing association.

“My near-nine years stint with amateur boxing is enough. There is no way I can continue with the official neglect, I am calling it quits and go professional,” Adamu said.

Adamu who was declaring his intention to join professional boxing at the offices of the Graphic said he has finally run out of patience with the amateur boxing authorities, who do little to improve their welfare.

“We take care of our off season training expenses, and when you need something from them, all you get is scorn and insults.

Commenting on the team’s poor show at the Olympic Games, Adamu disclosed that inspite of their determination to win medals at the games, action and inaction of officials ducked their morale.

“In an event like the Olympic Games, the officials could only supply each of us with only one set of track suit, one training shoe and one vest. Medals are not won with such attitudes,” Adamu said.

“I think I can no longer live under the mercy of such officials who care a little about us any longer, professionalism is my only sure bet of survival,” Adamu added.

With the exit of Adamu and Toney, Ghana has surely missed two of its potential best boxers in the pugilist sport.