Mayor Martin marks success of local Olympic boxer

September 17, 2021

In early September, Mayor Alderman Stephen Martin hosted a reception at Lagan Valley Island for local boxer Kurt Walker.

The Mayor wanted an opportunity to mark Kurt’s fantastic journey on his Olympic dream with family members.  Kurt was the only local athlete to compete in the Tokyo Olympics.

Speaking about Kurt’s achievements the Mayor said: “Kurt you fought for your Olympic dream.  On a global scale you demonstrated the quality athlete you are. I enjoyed watching each of your fights. I will cherish the memory of you defeating the top seed to make the quarter finals.”

Kurt trains at the local Canal Boxing Academy which is well known in the boxing community.  This Lisburn based training facility has produced several Commonwealth and Olympic competitors over the years. 

Councillor Skillen and Councillor Beckett, Chair and Vice Chair of the council’s Leisure & Community Development Committee respectively, also attended the reception.

Mayor Martin added: “Kurt as the only resident of the Lisburn Castlereagh area to compete in the 2020 Olympics please know you made our city proud on the world stage. Thank you and we wish you every success in your future.”

Members of Kurt’s coaching team and fellow boxers also attended the reception.