Sandy Row Boxing Club

Some classic club moments captured at home and afar. The club is privileged to have such a global presence. Feel free to comment where you are supporting from today! 🌍🥊

One of the most meaningful pieces of the Sandy Row Boxing Club: The Gary Whittley Championship Boxing Belt.

This stunning piece was created in memory of Gary Whittley, a devoted club member who was tragically killed in 2005. To honour his legacy, the belt is awarded every year on his anniversary to a boxer who has demonstrated exceptional passion, grit, and growth in the ring. It is truly a masterpiece and a fitting tribute to a young man who meant so much to this club.

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith" 2 Timothy 4:7

Take a quiet moment to step back in time with these rare glimpses into the heart of Sandy Row Boxing Club 🥊 📸

Have a look through and let the memories come back, please share your thoughts and stories below.

Happy Saturday folks! Another special snapshot from the Club's early era for you to enjoy. A special visit from the late Rev Martin Smyth, Ulster Unionist MP for South Belfast. We were delighted to welcome Martin to our Presentation of Awards night, a celebration of all the hard-work and dedication shown by each of our club members 🥊

Throwback to a legendary day at Sandy Row Boxing Gym! 💥

We were delighted to host the one and only Boxing Hall of Famer, Jane Couch MBE. Jane didn't just box; she fought to ensure women had a place in the sport, inspiring countless young people along the way. Seeing her and her trainer (Tex) in action at the gym was an inspiration to us all. Swipe to see some highlights from their workout! 🥊

Looking back at some familiar faces putting in the work in Sandy Row Boxing Club. Great times with the team! 🥊

A painting of a Sandy Row Boxing Club fight night by our very own Brian John Spencer.

Brian has always been a pillar of strength and support for us—whether leading as President of the QUB Boxing Club, representing Sandy Row in the ring, or giving his all on the rugby pitch. He’s the kind of person who steps up for everyone.

Brian has compared at our fights and even kept our spirits high by entertaining the crowds on his banjo between rounds! 🪕

Check out more of his brilliant work here: https://www.brianjohnspencer.com/

We are incredibly proud to share this collection of timeless photos capturing the club. From the raw energy of those first legendary fights to the famous faces who have walked through our doors, these images tell the story of our grit, heart, and community.

But it’s not just about the boxing; it’s about our roots, you'll even spot some traditional Ulster-Scots music on show to celebrate the heritage that has always been the heartbeat of Sandy Row. Enjoy! 🥊

Capturing history in the ring! A gallery of timeless milestones from the Sandy Row archives 🥊

Remembering a Sandy Row Legend: Roy McKenna

Roy McKenna wasn't just our Club President until his untimely death; he was the heartbeat of the Sandy Row Boxing Club and a true gentleman in every sense of the word.

Roy’s support for the local area wasn't about grand gestures for praise—it was about showing up when it mattered most. When we told him we were struggling without a permanent boxing ring, he didn’t hesitate. He simply said: "Order it and send me the bill." Because of his quiet generosity, generations of young people in this community had a place to train, grow, and belong.

He was, quite simply, the most genuine human being you could ever hope to meet. Here he is pictured with Wayne Pocket Rocket McCullough in the old gym.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." — 2 Timothy 4:7