The Knights of Columbus will hold the 89th Golden Gloves boxing tournament on Feb. 26 at 6:45 p.m. at 186 Jericho Turnpike in Mineola. Corpus Christi Council No. 2502 will be partnering with the New York Daily News to showcase the skills of amateur boxes that are dedicated to the sport.
Golden Gloves has been molding amateur boxers since 1923. Deputy Grand Knight for Corpus Christi Council No. 2502 Peter Zayas says that this tournament is very well regarded among young amateur boxers.
“There have been many past participants that went on to become Olympic and world champions. Now they have male categories and female categories,” Zayas said. “You could see anywhere from individuals who spend two weeks in the gym, to those who have been trained and are looking to make [this] a career and add some finesse to their boxing skills. You see the full gamut of boxing expertise.”
The fundraiser will raise money for the Knights of Columbus.
“With the funds that we raise, we support both the parishes of Corpus Christi Church, and the parish of St. Aidan’s in Williston Park…we also support seminarians as they’re going through schooling. We support retired priests and many different nonprofit organizations throughout Nassau County,” said Zayas.
Giving back to the community is a driving focus for the Knights of Columbus. They are currently looking for local businesses to sponsor the event by donating gift certificates that can be raffled off as fundraisers. The Nassau County Police Department will be at the event and will set up a recruitment table for anyone looking to join, as well.
“If they have a banner, we’ll put up a banner. If they have business cards or menus, we’ll put that up. We’re trying to make this a fun event for the community,” said Zayas.
For anyone with safety concerns, Zayas said you can rest easy. Referees are instructed to stop the bouts at the 8 count or if a particular fighter looks incapacitated. The Mineola Volunteer Ambulance Corps and the New York Daily News’ ring doctor will be present.
“Amateur boxing is different from pro-boxing because safety is a priority… if the boxer cannot continue, they will stop the fight,” said Zayas.
Tickets are available for the public through the council, but Zayas warns there are limited tickets available as more than 200 people are expected to attend. The cost is $25 per person. Food and refreshments will also be served. In the event of an emergency cancellation, Zayas said the event will be rescheduled sometime in March.
For more information and to buy tickets, call 516-458-6610.
