It was a fantastic weekend of boxing for the Tredagh Boxing Club at the Cúchulainn International Boxfest in Dundalk, which ran from Friday through Sunday.
Although results were mixed, performances were anything but — with both the skills and competitive boxers from Tredagh showing exceptional talent, determination and heart across every bout.
Strong Showings in the Skills Section
The underage boxers gained valuable experience in one of Ireland’s most competitive youth tournaments.
There were standout performances from:
- Shay McIllarney, who boxed opponents from Galway and Dublin,
- Seb Thornton, who faced opposition from Dublin,
- Emma Carter, who boxed from Galway,
- Chloe Sheelan, who boxed from Dublin, and
- Sasha Donica, who boxed an opponent from the North of Ireland.
Each young athlete impressed in their non-decision bouts, showing skill, spirit, and composure beyond their years. Coaches praised the group for representing both their club and families with pride and professionalism.
Competitive Box Cup Contests Bring Silver and Gold
In the older Box Cup division, Tredagh’s boxers put in outstanding performances across a series of tough, high-calibre contests.
Adam Walsh opened the campaign with a superb display against the current ABA English Champion. In a back-and-forth contest, the Englishman edged a 2–1 decision, but Adam earned huge respect for his fearless performance — especially given his limited experience compared to his opponent.
Simon McDonagh took a late-notice exhibition bout against a local Dealgan boxer, producing three technically sharp rounds in a high-quality contest.
Conan McCormack, making his first competitive appearance for Tredagh, boxed brilliantly in the final against an opponent from Nutgrove Boxing Club in Dublin. Despite a razor-tight split decision going against him, Conan took home a silver medal and plenty of praise for his skill and composure.
Ceejay Sheelan delivered one of the standout performances of the weekend. Facing a tricky southpaw from Clonmel, Ceejay executed his game plan to perfection, landing hard backhand crosses and body shots to take a unanimous decision victory, earning the title of Cúchulainn Boxfest Champion 2025. This win adds to his Emerald Box Cup and Manchester Box Cup titles from earlier in the year.
Michael James McDonagh also impressed, stepping up in a special contest after his original opponent withdrew. Giving away both age and weight, he went toe-to-toe with a Dealgan boxer in one of the most exciting fights of the day. Despite narrowly missing out on the verdict, he earned a silver medal and a standing ovation for his grit and power.
Cian Smyth closed the weekend in style with a thrilling win over the reigning Ulster Champion. In a dramatic three-round battle that saw both fighters exchange heavy blows, Cian’s relentless pressure and fitness shone through. Forcing a standing count in the final round, he sealed a unanimous decision victory — and the title of Cúchulainn International Boxfest Champion 2025. It’s another major accolade for Cian, who also claimed the Manchester Box Cup Title earlier this year.
A Weekend to Remember
Overall, it was a hugely successful weekend for Tredagh Boxing Club. Every member of the team from the youngest skills boxers to the senior competitors gave their all, showing the club’s depth of talent and commitment.
The coaches and families were praised for their unwavering support, while organisers Dealgan Boxing Club were thanked for hosting such a high-quality international tournament on home soil.
Well done to all the Tredagh boxers, coaches, and supporters on a brilliant weekend of boxing.
