A legendary boxing club based in Grenfell Tower is to reopen in a North Kensington car park on Thursday (October 12).
The Dale Youth Amateur Boxing Club (ABC) was based at the building for around 20 years and has churned out Olympic, World, European, Commonwealth, British and national champions.
The club, which has been running for more than 85 years and is known as The Factory of Champions, will be temporarily based at the Low Wood Court car park in Westbourne Park Road, in Notting Hill .
The move has been made possible with help from Kensington and Chelsea Council and the support of other groups.
Head coach Mick Delaney said the club would now be able to help build the lives of young people again.
He said: “Over the past 40-plus years, taking in all age groups, we, at the Dale, have produced more than 100 national champions, no wonder The Dale is often referred to as The Factory of Champions.
“However, this summer saw a horrific fire in our ‘Old Home of Grenfell Tower’, which has changed lives forever.
“We intend to help start building the lives of young people again through our club and sport, to show the spirit and commitment that exists locally and continue to be a focus for pride in the local community and continue to turn out generations of good citizens.”
The club had moved to the mezzanine level at Grenfell in May 2016 following a total refurbishment, which saw it fitted with world class facilities, including more rings, more bags, more equipment and brand new changing rooms .
Former member George Groves , who is gearing up for the first defence of his WBA Super World title belt on Saturday (October 14th) at Wembley Arena, was there for the special reopening.
Chairman Graham Gater said: “As we are all aware this year’s tragic fire had massive impact and effected so many lives with loved one’s perishing in the disaster, unfortunately our club headquarters were affected.
“As part of the repatriation of all tenants and organisations the Dale have been offered an interim alternative club base within the community it has served loyally for over 80 years.
“In partnership with the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, also with support and assistance coming from Powerday, Crossan Family Foundation, Box Clever, Kensington and Chelsea Foundation, KX Private Members Health Club and Fitness and Well Being Boutique Gym and Matchroom Boxing, we have been enabled to continue our voluntary service in and around the Grenfell Tower area for young people, some of whom were personally effected in the tragic event.
“The club is grateful to have received the support and assistance of these agencies and companies to ensure a new chapter can begin to be developed.”
Among guests expected to attend the reopening of the club will be council leader Elizabeth Campbell.
The Dale Youth Amateur Boxing Club: Who’s stepped into their ring
- James DeGale: Olympic, World, European and British Champion
- George Groves: WBA World Super Middleweight Champion, European, Commonwealth and British Champion
- John O’Donnell : Commonwealth Champion
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