Never Too Old
Amateur boxing
By Faith Wolfley

It used to be if you walked into a boxing gym over the age of 25, they figured you were there to sign up as a coach. Times have changed, not only in boxing, but also in the sports community as a whole. Maybe because the culture of today places a much greater emphasis on physical fitness and sports due to all the research into health issues. Or because more kids grow up in the city and suburbs and don't get exercise working the farm or doing chores. Or maybe just because we have realized that turning 40 is hardly "over the hill."

In the professional arena, boxers like George Foreman, Julio Ceasar Chavez and Bernard Hopkins have torn down the age limits of years ago. Amateur boxing divisions are set up to encourage athletes to keep training and competing well beyond their so-called prime.

In amateur boxing, the age break-down for the adult divisions are: Seniors (17-34) and Masters (35+). Once you are in the Masters' division, you can never box anyone younger than 35 and your opponent can be no more then 10 years apart in age. To further decrease the chance of a mismatch in skill level, there are three categories based on experience: Sub-Novice (0-3 bouts), Novice (4-10 bouts), and Open (11+ bouts). To increase the safety, the Masters are required to get additional health exams based on their age.

Whether your goal is fitness or more challenging competition…you are never too old.

USA Boxing Inc./Allegheny Mountain Association (412) 257-9868