Oughterard Boxing Club's Kieran Molloy has taken another huge leap in his career this week.
The Killannin teenager has taken gold at the Pavlyukov Youth Memorial in Anapa, Russia, with a classy win over Cuban light-welter Damien Sifonte-Lescay in the final.
The former world junior bronze medallist was the only Irish boxer to make it to the finals of the event known as the mini world championships, after beating a Scottish opponent and two Russians on home soil.
Against the Cuban champion, he was the unanimous winner from all three judges by 30-27 in the 64kg final.
Irish coach Billy McClean said the Oughterard boxer was outstanding. "Absolutely outstanding. He wanted it so badly and worked so hard for it and throughout the tournament here this week. We can’t praise him highly enough for the performance.”
“Kieran was absolutely fantastic," said Ireland team manager Gerry O'Mahoney. "A brilliant performance for the entire three rounds. It’s wonderful the hear Amhran na bhFiann and we’re thrilled with the win. They’ll be celebrating at the Oughterard club.”
