THE COUNTRY’S top boxers, whose exploits in the international scene have made headlines the year past, will be honored in the Banquet of Champions during the sixth annual Gabriel “Flash’’ Elorde Memorial Awards on March 25 at the Dusit-Nikko Hotel in Makati.
Johnny Elorde Management International and the Gabriel “Flash’’ Elorde Foundation are presenting the awards in memory of Flash Elorde, one of only two Filipino boxers elevated to the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
“This is a night of celebration for the country’s finest boxers,’’ said Laura Elorde, wife of the Flash. “The Elorde Family is again presenting the boxing awards to recognize the outstanding achievements of Filipino boxers as well as promoters, trainers and others who have contributed to the promotion of the sport.’’
Professional boxing dominated the sports headlines last year with the successful international campaigns of Manny Pacquiao, Bryan Viloria and Rey “Boom Boom’’ Bautista.
“Through the Elorde Memorial Awards, we hope to inspire other boxers to work even harder to bring honor and glory to their country,’’ said Johnny Elorde, a boxing promoter and one of the Flash’s sons who is overseeing this much-awaited event.
The Awards Night, the country’s highest accolade for Philippine professional boxers, will coincide with the 71st birth anniversary of Flash Elorde, whose unsurpassed seven-year reign from 1960 as world junior lightweight champion made him the greatest Filipino boxer of all time.
The honor roll will include Philippine champions of 2005, former world champions, best promoter, manager, trainer, referee and judge, matchmaker and most promising boxer. Special awards for the best fight of the year as well as patrons and special boxing friends will also be handed out.
The Banquet of Champions and Awards Night is sponsored by Pagcor, PCSO, Family Rubbing Alcohol, Smart, San Miguel Corp., Casa Belrina Travel, Johnson & Johnson, Bai & Mig Party Favors and Elorde Sports Center.
