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Thai star aims for career upsurge

26/ 2/2004

TOP Thai boxing prospect Steve Donnelly has changed stables, hoping to give his career in the ring a boost.

Donnelly had been a fixture of Beastmaster's Gym in Altrincham since taking up the sport a decade ago.

But his form slumped towards the end of last year and he decided he needed a change for his training.

A lifeguard at Middleton swimming pool he has signed up with Nonkee Payath Gym Club in Knutsford, to train under Vinny Shoreman and Dean White, two very experienced coaches with a vast knowledge of the sport and a host of contacts in Thailand.

Donnelly said: "Things weren't going right and I wasn't enjoying my training as much as I should."

"I felt I needed a change to start enjoying it again, and to get the best out of myself. I left Beastmaster on good terms and we wished each other all the best."

"Already I feel I've improved. I've noticed the difference in my punching and kicking, and I feel I'm hitting harder."

"I'm really enjoying my time in the gym again. Training under Vinny and Dean suits my style better, and things are going well."

Donnelly is now concentrating on trimming his weight in preparation for his next fight which will be in Scotland in April.