Birr Boxing Club celebrates success at national championships

Birr Boxing Club are celebrating the achievements of Liam Murphy who claimed All-Ireland success in the 62kg weight division at the 2026 National Boy 2 Championships.

The Boy 2 Championships is the biggest competition, by size, of the Irish Boxing calendar, and was contested by around 600 boxers over a five day period in the National Stadium Dublin.

Speaking in the aftermath of Liam's success, Birr Boxing Club coach John Pardy was full of praise for his work ethic following his weight division victory over Michael McAteer of St Monica’s Boxing Club, Newry.

"From the opening round, however, Liam rose to the occasion brilliantly. Liam just kept pushing forward and closing him down. He knew he had to keep his opponent on the back foot and Liam did exactly that in every round, while delivering superb punches through the centre," John said.

The five judges unanimously awarded Liam the championship title, sparking great celebrations among the Birr supporters.

Liam described the bout as the most intense experience of his life.

“Michael was a great fighter, and I had never boxed a southpaw before. He was really strong and landed some big shots.

“Overnight I had to learn how to change my foot stance to deal with that southpaw style, and my coach John was just amazing in getting me ready," Michael said.

Liam's parents, mother Maura and father Liam, both expressed their delight with the success achieved by Birr Boxing Club.

They both paid due credit to Liam's coach, John Pardy and Daniel Hutchinson whose "volunteerism and professionalism" have been part of Liam’s journey in the club".

Maura also praised the dedication shown behind the scenes, noting how John travelled the length and breadth of the country with Liam to arrange sparring bouts with other boxers.

“We are very grateful to those clubs for giving Liam those valuable experiences. It really did prepare him for the championships," Maura said.

Club secretary, Tracey Pardy, was keen to point out Liam’s All-Ireland is a proud moment not only for Birr Boxing Club, but for Offaly Boxing and the wider community and his success is a testament to hard work, dedication, expert coaching and the strong spirit of support that exists within the club.