Irish Boxer Aidan Walsh Seeks Final Olympic Qualification in Paris Opportunity

Tokyo bronze medallist Aidan Walsh is gearing up for his final chance to qualify for the Paris Olympics as he leads a seven-strong Irish team in the upcoming world qualification tournament in Bangkok, Thailand.

After returning to the ring in March following a 14-month break, Walsh was unfortunately beaten in his second bout at the first world qualification tournament in Milan. However, the 27-year-old now has one last opportunity to secure a place in his second Olympics, alongside his sister Michaela.

The Irish squad also includes European Games athletes Daina Moorehouse, Jennifer Lehane, Grainne Walsh, Sean Mari, and Kelyn Cassidy, as well as superheavy Martin McDonagh, who has claimed three Irish titles in a ten-month period.

Six Team Ireland boxers have already qualified for the Paris Olympics, including reigning Olympic lightweight champion Kellie Harrington and Tokyo Olympians Michaela Walsh and Aoife O’Rourke.

With more than 600 boxers set to compete in the Bangkok tournament, the qualification process will be tough. In Walsh’s light-middleweight class, there will be five spots available for the Games, while there are three places at 80kg.

The Ireland team will finalize their preparations at a multi-nations camp in Hua Hin, Thailand, before heading to Bangkok for the crucial qualification tournament. All eyes will be on Aidan Walsh as he aims to secure his spot in the Paris Olympics and continue his impressive boxing career.