POUNDING fists, young and older, are beating a powerful path to success for the Jorvik Boxing Club.

Less than two years into its existence, the all-action club is celebrating its first county triumph.

Clifton-based Danny Holmes travelled to Hull where he lifted the Yorkshire belt in the 65-kilogramme class. The 23-year-old captured his first crown winning a unanimous points verdict over three gruelling rounds.

And now with a belt firmly installed at the club, which operates at the Global Centre – the former Manor School in Boroughbridge Road – more and more youngsters are being inspired to go that extra yard, said club founder Gary Kelly.

The Glasgow-born boxer, who first came to York when he was just five years old to reveal little clues as to his Caledonian roots, first shipped up as a youngster with York Amateur Boxing Club when it was housed in the former All Saints’ church hall in North Street.

Through many nights training with the late Jack Raine, York’s doyen of amateur boxing, and numerous amateur fights, Kelly spent more than three decades at York ABC. He also turned his hands – and feet – to the odd bout of kick-boxing and mixed martial arts.

But boxing was always his prime passion and always keen to set up his own club, he left York two years ago to establish the Jorvik set-up.

Assisted by co-trainers Ashley Martin and Ryan Cashmore, Kelly’s operation is gaining more and more in experience and excellence.

Currently the fledgling club’s record stands at an impressive 21 wins from 30 fights, plus two skills victories – bouts that feature youngsters under the age of 11.

Even though the Global Centre base is slightly cramped for the swelling battalion of wannabe warriors, Kelly and his brigade run kids’ sessions and adult programmes each Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, a squad session on a Friday and fitness hours on a Saturday.

Said Kelly: “It’s grown so quick – it’s really taken off.

“The main thing for me was always wanting my own club and that’s why I moved from York ABC, where I learned so much.

“I got a buzz out of the idea of having my own set-up but then when you first open you realise you haven’t really got any boxers. You’ve just got the lads wanting to learn.

“But there’s an even bigger buzz in seeing them learn and develop. The thing with our club as well is they are all here to box competitively – youngsters and adults. It’s not just about fitness, it’s about getting in the ring, and everybody’s geared up for it.”

Holmes’ county conquest has added another gloved fillip, insisted Kelly, who explained: “The kids have seen him come back with the belt and they are proud to be part of the same club.

“It’s brought them all together and they want some of the same. It’s been a great lift.”

Understandably, landscape gardener Holmes was thrilled by his county triumph, adding: “Being the first belt-winner at the club was great and it was so good to come back to the gym where they all gave me a great round of applause.”