We are incredibly proud to share that Walton Academy student Learna has represented England in the prestigious Tri-Nation boxing tournament, held in Cardiff from 29 May to 1 June. The 16-year-old fought in the junior under 60kg category and brought home a silver medal after competing against top-tier athletes from Scotland and Wales.

Learna, who trains at New Saints ABC in St Neots, was selected for the England squad after becoming a two-time national champion earlier this year. Her impressive performance at the England Boxing Junior Championships in Wigan caught national attention, and she became the first Grantham-based fighter in the modern era to represent England at this level.

Learna’s journey to the Tri-Nation tournament began with her dominant display in the national finals, where she forced multiple standing counts on her opponent before claiming victory by technical knockout. Following that triumph, she was selected for the England Pathway programme and invited to training camps for further assessment before being named to the national squad.

Learna and her family were also genuinely grateful for the support shown by Walton Academy staff. Head of PE Faculty Miss Sandell and teacher Miss Ellis travelled to Cardiff to watch her compete – a gesture that was truly appreciated. Miss Sandell described it as “an amazing day” and spoke with pride about Learna’s determination and achievements.

Not one to rest on her success, just two days after her silver medal performance in Cardiff, Learna stepped back into the ring and claimed gold at the Ed Bilby BoxCup, held at Grantham Leisure Centre. She secured victory with a dominant three-round technical stoppage, once again showcasing her talent and resilience.

Her father, Leigh, expressed the family’s pride: “She’s on cloud nine and so are we as parents. It was her dream to represent England – and now she’s done it.”

We’re thrilled to celebrate Learna’s incredible achievements, both in and out of the ring, and we know this is only the beginning of her exciting future in boxing. Her next big ambition is to progress toward Olympic selection, with the longer-term goal of turning professional.

Congratulations, Learna – your strength, discipline and determination are an inspiration to us all!