Tramore boxer Zara Breslin is celebrated in City Hall for boxing success

Tramore native Zara Breslin received a coveted Mayoral Reception in City Hall this week in celebration of her many boxing achievements.

Zara first laced up her gloves at eight years old in Tramore Boxing Club, under the guidance of Ray Kelly, Jimmy Denton and Larry Hurley.

In the following years, her discipline and drive lead her to becoming National Champion at under 18, under 22, senior and college level.

This year she won a National Elite title in Belfast, became Haringey Box Cup Champion and represented Ireland on the European and world stage.

The reception of hosted by Mayor of Waterford City and County Council Cllr Seamus Ryan, who described Zara as “one of the brightest talents in Irish boxing today.” 

“Her story is one of persistence, early mornings, long training sessions and the resilience to rise again after every setback” Mayor Ryan added.

The Mayor also commended Zara’s family and coaches, for their years of unwavering support and dedication to her career.

“Behind every great athlete stands a circle of support. To Zara’s parents Antoinette and Donal, her brother, grandparents, her coaches and the Tramore community, this afternoon is as much your moment as Zara's.

“It is often said that champions are not born, they are made, and in Zara’s case, they are also nurtured by family, friends and a proud town that stands firmly behind her”

Speaking at the reception, Zara said that she couldn't have made it to where she is without the support of her family and coaches.

“I was five or six years trying for an Irish title and I didn’t get it until I was seventeen.

"It takes years to do this and it just shows that you never give up and you need to have good people behind you who will always support you no matter what you do.

"This would not be possible without my family and coaches, for all your hard work and for picking me up when I've been down."