Aoife O’Rourke has won European games gold with middleweight victory over Davina-Myrha Michel of France.
Castlerea boxer O’Rourke scored a unanimous victory having dominated the bout from the opening bell.
This was Ireland’s second gold medal in the boxing ring and the first for O’Rourke at the European Games.
O’Rourke opened the bout well on the front foot, using the right jab well throughout as she celebrated her 26th birthday.
The Castlerea boxer landed a number of good shot working off the left hand jab and following through with the right.
All five judges giving the irishwoman the first round 10-9 against Michel, who took World Championship bronze in 2022.
Excellent use of the jab
O’Rourke returned with a strong opening to the second round. Again using the jab well and following through.
A number of good left right combinations caused damage to the French woman. O’Rourke also worked well on the defensive, springing away from any brawls.
Four judges gave the blue corner the nod for the second round 10-9. One judge scoring it 10-9 to Michel.
Confidence was the name of the Irish woman’s game in the third round, knowing the medal was in reach after being given the information from her corner.
While Michel pressed for damage to try and claw back victory, O’Rourke landed a class shot to the head, having pulled Michel’s guard down.
The now 26-year-old did well, staying out of trouble and using her jab to effect. Four judges scoring the third round 10-9 in her favour.
O’Rourke’s hand was raised in the ring as she declared winner on a unanimous victory. 29-28, 30-27, 30-27, 29-28, 30-27.
AOIFE O’ROURKE IS YOUR 2023 EUROPEAN GAMES CHAMPION 🥇 #TeamIreland pic.twitter.com/zgr2ChfyBI
— Team Ireland (@TeamIreland) July 2, 2023
O’Rourke now adds European games gold to the European championship title secured in 2019 and 2022.
The Castlerea woman had already secured a place at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games and now goes through as one of the favourites.
