Leah Gallen is guaranteed at least bronze medal at the European Junior Championships in Russia.
The Raphoe ABC welterweight overcame Germany’s Finja Bree in Anapa to move into the semi-finals.
Gallen is a three-time Irish champion and was making her debut in the Irish vest by the Black Sea thus afternoon.
But she showed no signs of either novice or nerves with a fine performance to take the unanimous decision from the ringside judges.
Gallen, one of 26 Irish boxers competing in Russia, was backed by a sizeable Irish contingent, including some family members who flew over from Ballybofey.
And from the off, Gallen delivered a controlled and mature performance that belied the young years of a boxer who only celebrated her 16th birthday on Sunday.
Two of her national crowns were won earlier this year.
The St Columba’s College, Stranorlar woman defeated Sophia Hopkova in the Senior Cadet final – a win that effectively sealed her place on the plane to Russia – having previously beaten Keisha Attwell in the Girl 5 final at 66kgs.
Now, she goes for a colour upgrade in Russia.
