Davey’s eyes firmly on Olympic prize

Former Narrabri boxer Shannan Davey has his focus firmly set on qualifying for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics.

Just one fight separates Davey from earning a spot in the prestigious international event.

To qualify, Davey will need to win gold at the Pacific Games being held in the Solomon Islands in November.

Davey has been busy building up his experience on the international boxing scene, competing in Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Hungary, Thailand and Bulgaria.

“My goal is to get the Olympic gold medal,” Davey told The Courier during a recent visit back home.

“It has taken 10 years to get to this stage.”

Davey’s start in boxing came while living in Narrabri.

His move to Bundaberg, Queensland, four years ago has enabled his success in the sport to continue to flourish.

Davey has been spending time in Brisbane recently, perfecting his skills for the Pacific Games at The Boxing Shop.

He has also secured a scholarship through the Queensland Academy of Sport where he spends his time working on strength and conditioning.

Davey is well-supported at the Brisbane-based facility and its team of support staff.

“I’m there nearly every day. Training has become a full-time job,” he said.

During his recent return home to Narrabri, Davey was joined by his mother Leeanne.

“We are just so proud of his dedication,” Leeanne said.

“He gives it 110 per cent.”

Davey took the opportunity to talk to local students and show them his Boxing Australia medal.

He also offered plenty of advice to students.

“Anything is possible with hard work and dedication,” Davey said.

While qualifying for the Olympics and winning gold is Davey’s ultimate aim, he knows the road to glory will be a hard one.

“There will be some tough, strong boys,” he said of the Pacific Games clash.

“We have the skill base and development as well as a lot of strategy.”

If he doesn’t win gold in the Solomon Islands, Davey can still earn Olympics selection.

“There are other opportunities to get in but it will be tougher,” he said.

Davey credits his continued success in boxing thanks to the support he has received.

Local businesses continue to back Davey which means he is able to focus on his training efforts and his desire to make the Olympics.

Here’s hoping Davey succeeds in that quest and Narrabri can etch another name into the Sporting Wall of Fame.