The Irish Amateur Boxing Association have not only lost one of their true amateur boxing presidents in Brendan O'Connaire, but a noted academic as well. O'Connaire, who resigned this week from the organisation, speaks several languages, reputedly five, and has written a number of books -with another on the way. Attached to St Patrick's College, the erudite boxer is also involved in an academic lecture series. That makes him a man not to be trifled with either on the street or the lecture theatre.

Following O'Connaire's announcement that he was resigning, Joe Kirwan provided a memorable image which at once articulated the IABA's modesty and O'Connaire's high standing. "Comparing him to us is like comparing a Clydesdale to a Derby winner," said Kirwan. Surely not.