Amy Broadhurst’s attempt to secure a spot in the Olympics has ended in disappointment following a quarter-final loss at a qualifier event taking place in Bangkok.
Broadhurst, who holds previous World, European and Commonwealth titles, was beaten 4-1 by Korea’s Yeonji Oh during the top eight round on Friday. It’s worth noting that just the top three contenders from the 60kg category advance to Paris.
The athlete, originally from Louth, switched allegiance to compete for Great Britain, after Ireland chose not to select her for the qualifier. After her loss, Broadhurst took to Instagram, stating her heartache, suggesting that a long-held dream had taken a significant blow. She said her life was about the Olympics, boxing being her major focus and argued that her biggest setback came that day. Broadhurst suggested some critics might question her decision to switch sides, but expressed her pride in her efforts despite the outcome.
In the meantime, Aidan Walsh from Belfast is set to take part in a box off for another opportunity to represent Ireland in the Olympics. This follows his recent defeat in the quarter-finals of the 71kg category in Thailand. Despite losing 4-1 to Zeyad Eashash from Jordan at the recent games, there are five spots available in his weight category meaning Walsh will have another chance to qualify for Paris. Walsh secured a bronze medal at the previous games in Tokyo.