Coatbridge boxer Mark takes to world stage

Dec 5 2012 by Judith Tonner, Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser

Mark McKeown

Coatbridge boxer Mark McKeown lost out in his bid for youth world championship glory after a 14-10 defeat to Turkish opponent Yasin Yilmaz.

The 18-year-old performed well in the global event in Yerevan, Armenia and missed out on progression to the next stage only by a narrow scoring margin in each of the bout’s three rounds.

Mark, making his debut at the prestigious contest as a member of the four-man Scotland team, took on the Turkish southpaw in the lightweight 60kg category.

Club coach Rab Bannan of Barn Boxing Club said: “It was a very good fight and the first round in particular was very event, but Mark’s opponent held on for the lead.

“It’s been a great experience for him – he was chosen for the team because of his outstanding ability and because he’s worked his way up by winning titles and been very successful.

“Mark is a very clever and courageous fighter and has a very good future in front of him; he’ll go all the way to the professional ranks.”

The teenager, from Kirk Street in Coatbridge, has an impressive track record in his sport, including a European championship bronze.

He has won two British and four Scottish titles, and is a member of the development squad for the 2014 Commonwealth Games.