Boxing high performance row: Unedifying opening round

THE dysfunction within some aspects of Irish sport which bedevilled the Rio Olympics has a way to go to being fully explained and comprehended by those watching, sometimes aghast, at home. 

Boxing has frequently been at the top of the tree for international success. But last year’s Olympics commenced with allegations of doping after earlier suggestions of ill-discipline in the squad.

The shock defeat of Paddy Barnes opened further fault lines between the Irish Amateur Boxing Association and Sport Ireland over the departure of head coach Billy Walsh. While the battle of words raged bantamweight Michael Conlan was another victim of hugely controversial refereeing.