A local financial institution has partnered with a newly established boxing gym to support the future of the sport in the northern region of the island. Through a joint effort between the Gros Islet Boxing Gym, the Saint Lucia Boxing Association (SLBA), and First Citizens Investment Services, over $2,700 in funding was provided on September 24 to purchase equipment for the development of young boxers.
Jason Martin, coach and co-founder of the gym, which is located below his residence in Monier, emphasised that while the facility’s infrastructure is not yet complete, he believes that once finished, it will serve as a springboard for the future success of combat sports in Saint Lucia.
“This was ‘Reds’ Perreira’s idea to reach out to First Citizens because he saw that we needed a bit of financial help in getting started. We’re looking to make an impact on Saint Lucian boxing, creating a gym in the north of the island,” said Martin.
Despite the gym’s current location, Martin made it clear that the facility will serve not only his students but the wider community. He encouraged any athlete in the north who is interested in elevating their craft to get involved.
“What I’m looking for is fighters from this island. I’m looking for anyone that wants to do it, that feels they can do it… what I’m looking for is Olympians coming out of this country.”
As mentioned by Martin, much of the support for this initiative stems from the enthusiastic backing of veteran commentator and sports development advocate Joseph “Reds” Perreira. Perreira discovered the boxing talent and promise in the Gros Islet area through his commentary work, particularly during the 2025 OECS Boxing Championships held on the island in August. Representing SLBA President David “Shakes” Christopher at the official handover ceremony, Perreira expressed excitement about the gym’s potential and the broader development of the sport in Gros Islet.
“It’s going to have an impact on Monier; it’s going to have an impact on Monchy and we’ll see the fruit maybe in a year’s time when Saint Lucia appears to defend their title here with the talent that may come out.”
Both the boxing contingent and the SLBA have further ambitions to establish a larger and more accessible facility in the future. Officials are encouraging other members of corporate Saint Lucia to support this worthy cause. With Saint Lucia’s continued success in regional boxing, those involved are confident that this initiative will mark a new chapter in the island’s sporting development.
