Lagos Two hundred boxers in Lagos State will vie for honours at a maiden eight-day open competition tagged “The Challenger” at the Mobolaji Johnson Sports Centre, Yaba, Lagos Mainland, from Saturday.

The competition, sponsored by an entertainment company, Cruise Nigeria Ltd, is the firm’s contribution to the efforts by the Lagos State Amateur Boxing Association to discover talents.

Kayode Mobee, the Secretary, Lagos State Boxing Association, on Friday, said that it was part of the boxers’ preparation for the 17th National Sports Festival.

The sports festival will hold at the new Adokiye Amiesimaka Sports Complex, Port Harcourt, from June 29 to July 10.

Mobee said the best 20 boxers who would be selected from the championships ending on March 19 would be camped before the final selection for the Games.

The association scribe said that winners in the contest would be handsomely rewarded, but he did not disclose the prizes.

“We are indeed happy that sponsors have realised the need to help develop sports in the state.

“Indeed, the boxers are encouraged to train and prove their mettle in competitions,” Mobee said. (NAN)