Ray Moylette
Former European Elite and AIBA World Youth champion Ray Moylette has admitted that he’s heartbroken that his Olympic dream is over.
But the Mayo light welterweight said that he is humbled by the support of his family, club and coaches, the IABA High Performance Unit and friends.
Moylette was beaten by Armenia’s Hovhannes Backov over three rounds at the final Olympic qualifiers in Vargas, Venezuela last night in a fiery last-eight clash.
The top three light-welters in Latin America qualify for next month’s Olympics and Backov is now just one win away from the 31st Olympiad.
Irish boxing wishes him the best of luck in his quest.
Moylette (red) and Backov before lat night’s decision was announced
“It’s a tough pill to swallow, said Moylette.
“I was man enough to take on the challenge so I am man enough to accept the outcome. I’m heart broken but I know everything will be alright.
“Thank you very much to my team here in Venezuela, Martin Brennan and Eddie Bolger, who really sacrificed everything for me. My preparation was spot on and I never felt stronger.. The two lads made everything easy for me and I can’t thank them enough for all they have done.
“This whole journey couldn’t be possible without the help of my own boxing club in Westport, St Anne’s BC, the High Performance Unit and The IABA. I want to thank everyone involved who made it possible for me to chase my dream,
“I want to especially thank Zaur Antia and John Conlan who went out of their way to help me along with my own club coaches Martin Brennan, Peter Mullen, Tom Moran, Paul Mullen and Michael Burke.
“I’ve had massive support in my boxing career to date, and I’m truly grateful for all the well wishes and the words of encouragement. I had a whole nation in my corner and I’m humbled to say the least.
“Thanks to all my friends and family who made it possible over the years for me to train and fight at the top level, I am the foot soldier in the ring but my team always have my back.
“I have a great family, great friends, great girlfriend Sharon and a great future ahead.
“It’s time now to set new dreams and targets as I move on with my life. I really enjoyed the whole experience of chasing the Olympic rings in Rio and I’m glad I could Share it with you all.
“Thanks to my mother Mary Moylette and my sister Shiela Moylette for all the prayers along the way. I hope they haven’t gone to waste and they can guide me on my next adventure.”