Garton into semi-finals

Garton into semi-finals

New Zealand is assured of winning five boxing medals at the Gold Coast Games, equalling the record Commonwealth Games haul from Auckland in 1950.

Troy Garton guaranteed herself a meal with her win quarter-final over Botswana’s Arartwa Kasemang today.

The 30-year-old New Zealander won by unanimous points decision and looked the better fighter throughout.

She now meets Australian Anja Stridsman in the semi-finals.

Tasmyn Benny’s run in the women’s 48kg class came to an end when she was well beaten in the semi-finals by Northern Ireland’s Kristina O’Shea.

Benny, who serves in the New Zealand Navy, said later O’Shea proved particularly elusive. “It was a tough fight for me. She was a very good mover,” Benny said. “I think I got better each round, but she was very good.”

After a couple of months of closely watching her diet to ensure she made weight, Benny said she was looking forward to a bit of chocolate and maybe some pizza tonight.

The 19-year-old said she had enjoyed the experience of being in a Games team and feeling the support of her team-mates, especially on the boxing squad.

The third New Zealand boxer in action today was 20-year-old Ryan Scaife, who was clearly outpointed by Dieudonne Ntsengue of Cameroon in their quarter-final clash.

Scaife comes from a proud family of boxing champions, including his grandfather Alan, his father Grant and his brother Harry. His time may come, but today the Cameroon boxer was too good.