A TRIO of young Kendal boxers shone at a prestigious European tournament as they took home a haul of two gold medals and a silver.

The annual HSK Box Cup Tournament at Hillerod, near Copenhagen, Denmark, is run by the Danish Amateur Boxing Association.

First held in 1985, this year's event saw 400 boxers from 10 nations compete in what is regarded as one of the best international contests in Europe.

And though they were up against quality opposition, the three competitors from Kendal Amateur Boxing Club excelled.

Laughlan Savage won his gold medal by beating Khaled Fahbro of Helvikens BK, Sweden, in the final.

The technical skill of Savage proved too much for his opponent and the judges had no difficulty in unanimously awarding the bout in his favour.

Reece Johnson also won a gold medal by beating Geniti Tahka of Uiipinigork BC, Finland, in his final.

He displayed superior punching power against his opponent and was awarded a unanimous decision by the judges.

Jake Green was also a finalist and was up against the Welsh National Champion Keegan Jones of Dyfran.

In a very closely contested and thrilling fight, which could have gone either way, the judges awarded the gold to Jones by the narrowest of margins in a split decision but it was an excellent effort by Green to take the silver.

And the combined efforts of the Kendal squad so impressed tournament organiser Steen Sorenson that he has not only invited them back next year but has also promised to provide transport for the squad to and from the airport at Copenhagen.

Accompanying the squad to Denmark was head coach Alan Willoughby, assistant coach Paul Blair and team driver Craig Thorpe, together with supporting Kendal ABC member Archie Reid and Sol Huntley, both of whom will be boxing at next year’s contest.

“I want to congratulate them on their dedication throughout the year with the aim of winning gold," said Mr Willoughby.

"The skill sets they produced on the day was overwhelming.

"For young Jake Green to box a champion of Wales in the final and only to lose by the narrowest of margins was a very creditable performance and will stand him in good stead for next year.

"And Laughlin Savage and Reece Johnson both winning their finals ‘bell to bell’ in each round was a joy to watch.

"They all can’t wait till next year, especially the two who came to spectate, when they too will be able to show what they can do.

"We are all over the moon, but we can’t rest on our laurels.

"Special Sunday squad training has already begun for next year's tournament"

Mr Willoughby also thanked sponsors Fish Express in Kendal and also AST Signs.