Bundaberg amateur boxer Shannan Davey has his eye on the prize as he prepares to head to the world championships to represent Australia in Uzbekistan.
The Australian champion will travel to Uzbekistan, north of Afghanistan, for the Men’s World Boxing Championship in the 71kg division at the end of April.
With nerves of steel and quick footwork, Shannan said he was honoured to represent his country, and he has hopes to make the Australian Olympic team next year.
Boxing for 10 years, it was a deal with his older brother that persuaded Shannan at the age of 13 to put on the gloves for the first time to see what he was made of.
“I was living in Narrabri and playing footy and let’s just say I was a bit overweight at that time,” Shannan said.
“I was eating pizza, when my brother said if I put down the slice he’d let me go to boxing with him – I loved every second of it and now I watch what I eat, and it’s not pizza!”
Moving to Bundaberg secures Shannan's potential
It was a few years later when Shannan realised his boxing potential and he sought to move to a region with a dedicated boxing academy.
“In the small country town of Narrabri there wasn’t much opportunity to advance my boxing,” Shannan said.
“My sister lived up here in Bundaberg, and I knew who the Kovacs boys were, so I jumped at the opportunity to move here and train with Attila Kovacs.
“That was three years ago and now my parents live here too.
“I am the only boxer from Bundaberg going to the world championships.
“I feel very excited and honoured to represent my country.”
Working as a local support worker Shannan finds time to dedicate long hours to the sport he is passionate about as he trains up to three times each day.
“I really have had a lot of help from Attila, and I know he is a very proud coach,” Shannan said.
“It’s the third time I have competed overseas – in New Zealand and Europe before.
“I am in a really good position to be part of the Paris Olympics in 2024 and that’s my goal!”
Shannan thanked the many people who had helped him during his boxing career, including his coaches and his parents and family.
To find out more and follow his boxing journey click here.
- Other news: Immersive installation Wish comes to gallery
