ON the amateur front, events outside the ring dominated things. As efforts continued to sort out deep-set administrative difficulties the Irish Amateur Boxing Association found itself embroiled in a domestic problem in Wales.

The IABA president, Nicky White from Wexford, paid an ill-advised visit to a tournament organised by the Maesteg club, one of several maverick clubs which have broken away from the Welsh parent body.

The result was a strong protest by the WBA which in turn resulted in internal strife in the IABA which, as we go to press, is still unresolved with White refusing to step down as president following a vote of no confidence in him by the Central Council.

Inside the ring, Irish boxers competed with typical spirit but without success in the Atlanta Olympics. Brian Magee from Belfast won two bouts at middleweight but failed in his bid for a medal in his third bout.

Much interest focused on Francie Barrett, Ireland's welterweight. A member of the travelling community and the Irish flag carrier he progressed to the second round, a feat equalled by Damaen Kelly from Belfast but Cathal O'Grady from Meath was beaten in his first bout by lack of experience rather than spirit