Victorious Sutherland turns focus to Beijing

DARREN SUTHERLAND is adamant this is his last season as an amateur boxer and he hopes to go out in style at the Olympic Games in Beijing next August.

“That’s why it was vital for me to win the hat-trick of titles at this year’s (national) championships,” he said. “Because this is going to be my last year as a national amateur. I did not want to go out on a bad note. If I can get to the Olympic Games now, that will be the icing on the cake.”

As a power puncher, who likes to get involved, he is regarded by many experts as a readymade pro and his decision is sure to attract interest.