Mission Valley sending two boxers to national tournament

Two young boxers from the Polson Boxing Club – Araeya Nelson and Oziah HeavyRunner – headed to Independence, Mo., for the Silver Gloves National Tournament on Feb. 8. To qualify for the tournament, boxers must first win in their respective states and then their region.

Araeya Nelson started boxing in the fall of 2018 and is known for attending both early and late practices in a day. She has shown exceptional dedication and hard work, which has earned her a place in the adult class.

She has also taken part in wrestling, track, and cross-country while training at the Polson Boxing Club. Despite facing tough competition in her first match against the second-ranked boxer in the country, Nelson never gave up and is now striving to make a mark in the boxing world.

Sixteen-year-old Oziah HeavyRunner from Arlee will compete in the 176-pound weight class. He has been boxing for 18 months and joined the Polson Boxing Club after being recruited by Matt Lee during a fight card in Spokane.

Under the guidance of Charles Timson, Oziah has improved his skills and recently won a decision over the current Montana State Champion in the 176-plus weight class.

“Boxing is a sport that demands hard work, dedication, and willpower,” says Lee. “It requires overcoming emotions and facing a stranger in the ring, knowing that you will be punched in the face. The difference between first and fourth place can come down to the smallest of factors, making the sport exciting and unpredictable.”

The Polson Boxing Club operates as a 501c3 organization and offers boxing training to young people, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, at no cost. They welcome partners and supporters and can be reached at the Polson VFW or through Facebook.