By Jason Lowe
After six years of painstaking research, fact finding and interviews, Kirkland Laing's Biography is finally available in print.
The Gifted One, penned by Oliver Jarratt is a 453 page hardback account of the legendary boxer who never fought for a world title.
This beautifully presented book, containing 53 pictures, is the only official biography covering the Jamaican boxer's career in fine detail; from his ABA triumph at the tender age of 17 to his exit from the ring and life thereafter.
Oliver said, “Kirk had a rollercoaster pro career marked by dazzling successes, unexpected defeats and implausible comebacks.
He fought exile in the mid-eighties, and returned in triumph as the dreadlocked elder statesman of British boxing, calling himself 'The Gifted One.' Only at the age of forty did he walk away from the professional ring and even then, the drama wasn't over.”
This easy to read offering is packed full of detail including Kirkland's amateur records right through to the details of the referee for each fight.
Oliver said "I wanted to set the record straight about Kirkland's career, and interviewing his opponents, colleagues and friends was a pleasure.”
Although this biography is a must for fans, you won't find it on the shelves of bookstores.
Oliver continued, “This is a limited edition print and only available through my website or me directly. All profits made from sales of this book will go to Kirkland.”
After spending many years living in London troubled by addictions, Kirkland has put his demons behind him, moved back to the Midlands and is now being cared for by his family.
The Gifted one is priced at £18.00 but for £2.00 extra you can have a copy signed by the author, who will donate the £2.00 to the Midland's Ex-Boxers Association.
This book relives Kirkland's sensational career with flair and affection and is a Christmas must have for all boxing fans.
For more information or to order your copy visit:
http://www.oliverjarratt.com/ or send a cheque for £23.20 (£18 plus £5.20 post and packing) to Oliver Jarratt, PO Box 14985, Solihull, West Midlands, B93 3EU.
Midland Ex-Boxers Association
By Jason Lowe
The Midland Ex-Boxers Association (MEBA) is a benevolent organisation that formed with the purpose of generating funds to aid ex-boxers that were amateur or professional and male or female alike.
Launched in 2002, the association was started by former Professional boxer Ron Gray along with Jerry Hjelter, Les Potts and Barry DeLacy and since its humble origins; it has gone from strength to strength. Over the years the original line up may have changed, but the hard work, dedication of members and achievements hasn't.
Ron is now promoting his dinner shows that have featured on the Midland's popular Boxing Show lists and Les Potts is Secretary for the British Boxing Board of Control covering the Midlands and Southern Areas. Barry De Lacy sadly passed away and Jerry, who is the only remaining original member, is the Security of the foundation.
Jerry is now joined by a new line up: Bunny Johnson is President, Martin Florey Chairperson, Vice Chairperson is PJ Rowson and Stephen Florey is Treasurer.
Over the years the MEBA has fundraised and provided support for many charities and individual boxers too, from donating memorabilia for auctions to paying household and medical bills to old comrades of the ring.
The new line up is an exciting one and Bunny Johnson is a great asset. He was not only the first black boxer to become a British Heavyweight Champion but he also won the Light Heavyweight Championship together with a coveted Lonsdale Belt outright, before securing a Heavyweight Title.
He embarked on his professional boxing career in 1968 and from the beginning he quickly established a reputation for being a extremely powerful and determined.
Bunny is a much-loved character and his role as President for the MEBA comes with huge responsibility providing vital aid and of course the utmost of respect
A testimony to the MEBA's support recently was an extremely generous donation to aid the former Midlands Heavyweight champion Al Malcolm at an event at the Tower Ballroom in Edgbaston, Birmingham.
The Midland Ex-Boxers Association are always on the look out for new members, and joining is only £5.00 per year. The next meeting is at the Portland Pavilion, Portland Road, Edgbaston, on December 6th at 11am prompt, refreshments will be available.
If you are a boxing fan and would like to support ex-boxers in need, I urge you to become a member.
For more information or to join you can contact Jerry on: 01299 879907 or email: jerryhjboxing@hotmail.com.
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