Zach fights for the All Ireland, 70 Kg Series in the National Stadium, Dublin
tomorrow - Representing The Emerald ABC, Zach recently won the youth
1, 70KG Connacht Boxing Championship in Castlerea. Zach, by majority
decision defeated opponent Tom Savage, the former Galway Champion in
the final.

Zach, feeling confident ahead of the tournament stated “I am going to
give it my all and do my best to bring an All-Ireland trophy back to
Ballinasloe. I am a small bit nervous but once I get in to that ring, I will
be a different person and I will do my best to get the job done.”

Zach has been boxing with Emerald Boxing Club for four years. Zach
stated “I’ve always had a desire to have the ability to hit and not get hit.
My father also boxed when he was younger so this compelled me to join.”
On his boxing style, Zach added “I box in an orthodox stance. I have
always been able to throw very powerful punches from a young age. My
style requires a high work rate with plenty of punches and movement. I
am able to get inside my opponents reach and do damage. This is
important as most of my opponents are usually taller.”

Zach trains throughout the week splitting his regime between the boxing
club and at home, Zach noted “I am training very hard at the moment,
using all of my time outside of school. It involves a lot of running, core
exercises and conditioning.” Zach added “In terms of weight-cutting, I am
quite comfortable at my weight. I make 70 kilograms easily without a
strict diet. I try to steer clear of junk foods”

Zach’s biggest influences have been his father, Patrick and Pat Mongan,
from Ahascragh “These guys inspire me to work hard every day to
achieve my goals. My Dad has spent countless hours driving all around
the country for new sparring partners. Pat has taught me from the
beginning that nothing can stop you from achieving your goals." Zach
added “On a global scale, Mike Tyson, as I have tried to mimic his style
from the moment I seen him in the ring.”

Patrick commented “Every time he steps into the ring I am proud of him.
To face against an opponent that has the same plan as you and to come
out on top takes guts and a lot of belief in yourself.”

Following recent success, Zach stated “I hope to make a career out of
boxing. I plan to make the Irish team as soon as possible. Following that,
I hope to represent Ireland in the Olympics. My end goal is to
turn professional and to follow in the footsteps of Mike Tyson”

Zach concluded “I would like to thank all my trainers for putting the
countless hours of work into me. Without them, I would not have seen my
recent success. I would also like to thank my family for their support and their confidence in me.”

Plans well underway in Ballinasloe for their annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The Parade will assemble at the Fairgreen car park, at 1.30p.m on Friday 17th March and will begin at 2p.m. sharp. The Parade will travel down Society Street, Main street, Sli na Habhainn, Dunlo Street and finishing in St Michaels Square.

There will be lots of on street entertainment for spectators to enjoy on the day, including performances from local musicians and dancers, and a welcome return of the Ballinasloe Town Band.

Participants may choose from five categories including education, culture, sporting, voluntary and commercial. There will be valuable cash prizes to be won in each category with an overall award of the Tony Colohan Perpetual Commemoration Trophy.

The organisers are appealing to the local business community to assist with sponsoring the cost of the parade.

The Parade Team are encouraging the local schools, sports clubs voluntary organisations and businesses to take part in the parade.

P.R.O Carmel Greally stated "This year's Parade gives us all the opportunity to showcase all of the positive aspects that our town and surrounding areas have to offer. So come along to the Ballinasloe Parade and help to make it a special day of celebration and a fun day for all of the family."
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For inquiries please contact:
Carmel: 087 620 7477