Boxing Through The Generations

Above is a new mural in Templemore Street, at the eastern edge of the residential part of the Albertbridge Road. The mural features seven boxers: John Lowey, Billy Birch (’47-’54), Herbie Young, James Gorman, Ray Close (who fought Chris Eubanks to a draw for a World belt in 1993), Luke Wilton (’08-present), and Stephan Keenan. Information on-line is sparse, so please comment or e-mail.

Update: 2013-12-24 Two plaques have been added to the piece above, one showing the photographs upon which the portraits in the mural were based (except Keenan’s), and the other describing the process by which the Ulster-Scots mural was replaced as part of a project by Charter NI (along with the city council and the housing executive). It reads: “Communities Moving Forward Re-Imaging Programme Phase One. The concept of renewal, change and respect lies at the heart of the ‘Communities moving forward’ programme, which recognises the importance of creativity in all its manifestations and in all our lives, reflecting the heritage of our communities in a positive manner. Boxing through the generations showcases the positive images of this proud small community.” (Also: NIHE press release)