Essex boxer Lewis Richardson will be hoping to deliver a set of knockout performances as he travels to the Paris 2024 Olympics with the Team GB boxing squad. Born in Colchester, Lewis who will be taking part in the light-middle weight class, is the first boxer from Essex to box for Team GB at the Olympics in a number of years. However, Lewis is not new to this level of international competition after winning a bronze medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, as well as winning silver at the European championships in the same year.
Lewis first entered his local gym at around 11 years old with a group of friends from the council estate that he lived on. He was initially driven by a desire to improve his fitness and be with others. He added that “my brother Deacon’s presence at the gym helped motivate me”. Lewis and his brother, despite their financial position, were supported by their family to travel across the country and represent their club in a range of different competitions.
Despite what most think, Olympic selection is not just a matter being picked based off your ability, it requires a rigorous qualification process. Lewis explained that “You don’t actually get selected; you have to qualify through an Olympic qualifier and then earn your spot”. The journey to Olympic qualification has been both rewarding and character building for Richardson, making him both a better fighter and person, importantly helping him to develop ahead of the Paris games.
“I’m proud of who I am today, and I feel like boxing has played a massive part of developing me as a person. I enjoyed the Team GB kitting out day earlier this month and meeting those I’ll be travelling with. I’m also really looking forward to entering the Olympic Village and of course the opening ceremony. The most exciting thing for me though will be entering the ring for my first bout, which will be a very special moment for me and my family, representing Great Britain on the greatest stage on earth!”
One of the greatest lessons that the 27-year-old has learnt on his journey is the importance of overcoming setbacks. “The setbacks and challenges you face along the way are the most important factors in creating who you become. It’s how you face adversity and overcome challenges that make you a better fighter, athlete, and person,” he reflects. These experiences have been crucial in achieving his Olympic dream.
He also highlights the profound impact boxing can have on an individual’s life and on society. “The potential impact that boxing can have on an individual’s life can be nothing short of life changing. Many boxing gyms are located in deprived areas, and a young boy or girl walking into a boxing gym for the first time enters a community where everyone is equal and has the opportunity to express themselves. It’s a fantastic chance for them to develop as a person and a boxer, through discipline, hard work and dedication”.
Lewis also emphasised that boxing provides a positive outlet for youngsters, keeping them off the streets and offering a safe space to grow and develop, whilst staying out of trouble. He offers valuable advice to children and young people with similar aspirations; “Enjoy the journey, it can be physically and mentally demanding, but to overcome this you have to keep enjoying and loving what you do. The positives that boxing provides can also be transferrable into education, work and future relationships.”
“Work hard to achieve the outputs you desire, listen to your coaches, and cut no corners because the journey to success isn’t an easy one, but once you get there it can feel like the best feeling in the world. Keep good people around you that will continue to support and help drive you throughout, and most importantly be the best version of yourself you can be.”
As he continues his preparations for the biggest fights of his life, Lewis hopes that his journey helps to inspire and motivate future generations to pursue their dreams with passion and perseverance. The boxing schedule starts on Saturday 27th July so make sure to tune in and cheer him on!
If you want to read about the other athletes from Essex taking part in this year’s Olympic Games in Paris, then click here.
