Kellie Harrington’s Absence from the World Boxing Cup
Kellie Harrington, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in lightweight boxing, has been training intensively and appears to be in excellent form. However, she will miss the upcoming World Boxing Cup in China scheduled for mid-June. Despite her impressive preparation, Harrington will not be part of the 11-member Irish team heading to Guiyang City for the event taking place from June 15 to 21, after already opting out of the initial leg of the 2026 competition held in Brazil last April.
Strategic Training Focus
According to Jon Mackey, Ireland’s high performance director, the 36-year-old boxer from Dublin is strategically approaching her training, focusing on long-term goals rather than immediate competitions.
“With Kellie, I’ve learned that progress is often incremental, with her methodically working her way back into the sport,”
Mackey explained to BBC Sport NI. He emphasized that Harrington is fully concentrating on next year’s Olympic qualification process, indicating that her current absence from competitions is a deliberate choice.
Harrington’s Comeback and Current Form
Harrington had previously retired after successfully defending her Olympic title in Paris two years ago but made a comeback last year, winning a gold medal at the Odivelas Box Cup in Portugal and later earning her 12th Irish Elite title in January. Mackey expressed confidence in her readiness, stating,
“It’s safe to say she’s in good form and we’ll see what happens in the near future.”
Irish Boxing Team for the World Boxing Cup
On a positive note for the Irish boxing team, the squad heading to China features four newcomers, indicating a blend of experience and fresh talent. Among them are Josh Olaniyan and Tadhg O’Donnell from the Jobstown Boxing Club, both of whom will be making their World Boxing Cup debuts, alongside Galway’s Cliona D’Arcy and Adam Hession.
Veterans Daina Moorehouse and Dean Clancy return to the competitive arena after their quarter-final exits in Brazil, joined by fellow Olympians Jenny Lehane, Michaela Walsh, and Jack Marley. Maintaining continuity, Jon McConnell and Evelyn Igharo are also on the roster following their participation in Brazil.
Team Development Insights
Interim head coach Damian Kennedy shared insights on the team’s development, stating,
“The sparring camp in Brazil was really beneficial; the athletes went deeper into the competition this time around, setting the stage for a strong performance in China.”
He acknowledged the new athletes as an exciting opportunity for growth and noted some remaining squad members are nursing injuries, indicating a cautious approach to selection ahead of the Commonwealth Games that are also on the horizon.
Team Ireland Boxers for the World Boxing Cup
The following boxers will represent Team Ireland at the World Boxing Cup:
- 51kg: Daina Moorehouse (Enniskerry BC, Wicklow)
- 54kg: Jenny Lehane (DCU BC, Dublin)
- 57kg: Michaela Walsh (Holy Family BC, Belfast)
- 60kg: Adam Hession (Monivea BC, Galway)
- 65kg: Dean Clancy (Sean McDermott BC, Leitrim)
- 70kg: Jon McConnell (Holy Trinity BC, Belfast)
- 70kg: Evelyn Igharo (Clann Naofa BC, Louth)
- 75kg: Tadhg O’Donnell (Jobstown BC, Dublin)
- 80kg: Josh Olaniyan (Jobstown BC, Dublin)
- 80+kg: Cliona D’Arcy (Tobar Pheadair BC, Galway)
- 90kg: Jack Marley (Monkstown BC, Dublin)
With the upcoming World Boxing Cup and the Commonwealth Games, the Irish boxing landscape is ripe for compelling contests and athlete development over the next several months.
