Bethany Doocy – Women of Sports Week 2024
Date: March 5, 2024
Attracting the attention of women in sports
Bethany Doocy
Bethany Doocy, a 21-year-old from Keylogues and president of Castlebar Boxing Club, is one of the most highly regarded boxers in the country. I had the pleasure of speaking with her as part of #Womeninsportaire Week 2024
How did you find out about your chosen sport and what were your local clubs?
I'm from Keylogs, Ballybary and box at Castlebar Boxing Club. Before I started boxing, I played team sports, but I didn't really enjoy them as much. Then one day me and my friend decided we too would try. Wanting to try something new, I went to a boxing club for a session. Since then, I haven't looked back.
Could you briefly tell us about your sports history?
I am very proud of having had a very successful boxing career. He has won 11 national titles, two of which are elite national titles. He has represented Ireland internationally on numerous occasions in various countries.
What do you think is your proudest accomplishment to date?
Winning my second National Elite title was a huge milestone for me. I was ecstatic when I won my first Elite title in October 2021 and I was the first person to win an Elite title at Castlebar Boxing Club, so obviously it was a big thing for me and the club. But winning the Elite title two years in a row and retaining the title was incredible. And my opponent was a European Youth Champion and a World Youth Bronze Medalist, and I couldn't believe I was able to defeat such a highly decorated boxer. The final made me realize how good I could be.
What advice would you give to young girls starting out on a new path in their chosen sport?
No matter what the sport is, no matter how different the sports are, the best way to approach a sport properly is to always try it out and do your best before deciding if it's the right sport for you. . I tried the sport 6/7 before finding boxing and it was definitely the perfect sport for me! So, never give up. If you feel bored with a particular sport, it may be time to try a different sport.
Did you have a local hero that you looked up to when you were growing up? A coach, teacher, or colleague who inspired you?
I don't think I can name any local heroes, but in a house with three brothers, we were always competing, whether it was sports-related or not. So I think it's safe to say that I respect my brothers the most! I still look up to my brothers and parents, but now I also get a lot of inspiration from my coach, Miles Cresham. He's a great guy and the work he's done with me and all the other members of the club is really inspiring and what I can do. Without the encouragement and support I received from Miles and Castlebar Boxing Club, I can say with certainty that I would not be here today. I'm incredibly lucky to be part of such a great club.
Finally, what do you love about Mayo and where you’re from?
There are many things I like about Mayo, but I like it the most because this is where I grew up and it holds so many memories for me. I love this landscape and the whole county is so peaceful, the people are always so kind and there is so much to do.
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