Belfast Boys Model School

Derek Potter, aged 13 looks like any other teenager as he laughs and jokes with his school friends, but this pupil proves an extraordinary boxing talent, who with hard work and determination, could earn himself a place in the London Olympics 2012, following in the footsteps of boxing legend Amir Khan, who competed as an amateur in the 2004 Athens Olympics winning a silver medal at 17 in the Lightweight Boxing Category.

Derek, a member of Cairn Lodge Boxing Club, Belfast who has been boxing from the tender age of 6, is well respected for his intensive training regime and healthy lifestyle choices, so it is no wonder that he recently earned the title of All Ireland Champion (39 Kilos) at Dublin’s National Stadium, beating off stiff competition from boxers from all over Ireland.

In the ring Derek proves a worthy opponent who is quick and nimble on his feet, always maintaining mutual respect for his competitor, touching gloves and hugging at the end of match. Derek’s skilful boxing presented him with an exciting opportunity to represent Northern Ireland against USA, in Washington DC, at the first annual Belfast- Beltway Boxing Classic, along with fellow Belfast Boy’s Model pupils, TJ Waite and Ross Irvine. This charitable tournament brings together 2 groups of athletes from both sides of the Atlantic, provides a unique and inspiring experience for the young men competing, many of whom have never left their own neighbourhood.

Northern Ireland has produced a wealth of boxing talent, with Barry McGuigan, Wayne McCullough and John Duddy all making their mark in the world on international boxing, and with a continued and sustained training programme, determination and self belief, local teenager, Derek Potter may well follow in the footsteps of these boxing legends.

More pictures in the Gallery.