To the relief of the ladies, this year’s Bengal Bouts started the day AFTER Valentine's Day. As Quarterfinals got underway, St. Edward's was well represented, fielding FIVE Gentlemen boxers, who, like the Hall’s Bengal Bouts ad portrayed, brought class to the ring. The Steds Five were Ryan Davey, Kyle Mackey, Curtis Donovan, Dan McGuire, and Nathan Holt. Started by Knute Rockne, the Bengal Bouts support the Congregation of Holy Cross’ missions in Bangladesh, and this year marks the 94th year of the bouts and the special connection with missions.
In the Showcase Bouts, sophomore Nathan "Kawika" Holt had his hands full, taking on an opponent who was considerable larger and with a longer arm reach. And while the disparity between the two boxers was clearly visible, Kawika wouldn't back down nor stay down. It was a bruising bout, but Holt just wouldn't surrender. In the end, Holt lost his bout, but he lost with class and dignity. On Holt's loss, Matt Thorn, Stedsman and Holt's roommate, shared, "A wise man once said “I get knocked down but I get up again,” and that’s what we saw from Nathan last night. A massive recovery showing his endurance and confidence in the ring, wearing out his opponent without looking exhausted. Not the result we wanted, but I’m sure he’ll keep the same attitude we saw in this match going into next year."
In the Semifinals, freshman Kyle "Outlaw" Mackey also had his hands full, taking on an opponent who not only older, being a senior, but also a returning Bengal Bouts champion! But that didn't phase our outlaw who came out swinging and kept swinging until the very end. While the returning champion demonstrated his skills, our young upstart taught the old man a thing or two, landing a few punches. But in the end, the skill and stamina of the returning champ carried the day and extinguishing Mackey's run. Yes, our outlaw may have headed off into the sunset, but he'll be back! On Mackey's bout, Mace Sexton, Steds AR and spectator, shared, "It didn't end the way we want, but he went the distance."
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