A visit to her former primary school has inspired Chantelle Reid, an Olympian in Paris from 2024, to return to the GB team and in 2028 to focus on the Los Angeles matches.
Reid had overcome a back injury that kept her out of boxing for six years to make the team for the Paris competitions and to be eligible. She impressed her Olympic debut when she was eliminated by Khadija Mardi about a slender split decision.
The gifted middleweight had decided to become professional. But she returned to her old school to tell her story.
“That moment really made me think – the Olympic Games have always been my dream, and this is my last chance to go again and get a gold medal,” said Reid.
“My teacher of the year 4, Mrs. FaulKner, asked the children if someone has a dream and 99 percent of their hands lifted. It was a really emotional moment for me because I was sitting there at a certain point with a dream. To become Olympic champion.
“I explained that I became professional and she could not believe that at the age of 27 I would not go for another Olympic cycle.”
She added: “The Olympic Games were such a determining experience in my life – filled with incredible highlights and a very difficult layer.
“Every athlete prepares with total dedication and pushes both body and mind to the limit. To compete at that level was a dream come true, and I was proud of having lived it. I really appreciated every moment.”
Her next target will be the world championships that take place in Liverpool from 4 to 14 September.
“I would like to be selected – when I have considered myself ready. I don’t do competitions, only for experience, especially at that level. I compete to win,” Reid was full.
Charley Davison, Lewis Richardson, Rosie Eccles, Delicious Orie, Chantelle Reid and Pat Brown formed GB’s Olympic Boksteam
“I have spar with top Olympians while I have been out, and I feel more than ready to get back in the ring.”
Her ambitions extend to the top of the Olympic stage.
“My return has one clear goal: La 2028 and an Olympic gold medal. I was only in the GB team for five months before I was eligible for Paris, and in my mother’s words:” Imagine what you could do in three years, “said Reid.
“My life is dedicated at a young age to fight sport. Like many young athletes, I dream of Olympic gold – and I believe that dream is my destination.”
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