Lacey teen packs a powerful punch By BOB VOSSELLER Staff Writer January 21, 2010 LACEY &emdash; Bobby McCarthy, 16, is a contender. The young boxer hopes to get his shot at a title that could make him the top ranking boxer in the country for his age and weight division. To get to Independence Mo., where the National Silver Gloves Tournament will take place Feb. 3-6, takes money, and his teacher, Shawn Darling, the owner of Gladiator Boxing, hopes the public will come out to a benefit event next week to make it happen. Bobby, better known in boxing circles as "The Bull" qualified last year too by winning the regional tournament and state tournaments but was unable to raise the money to get out to Missouri. "Through generous donations he will be able to represent the state and bring home the national title this year," Darling said. McCarthy is currently the third ranked 16-year-old super heavyweight in the country. He competed in the National Junior Olympic Tournament last June in Colorado and finished with the bronze medal. The 6-foot, 2-inch, 240- pound teenager is a sophomore at Lacey High School and would like to either make the 2012 US Olympic team or turn professional by his senior year. "I lived in Brooklyln before moving here four years ago." he said. "I didn't have a lot of friends when I got here, and one day I was watching "Rocky" on TNT and my mom later let me know about Gladiator Boxing. I got very excited." He said he also is excited about the national tournament bout and he is looking forward to the opportunity to win that title. The expenses involve range from to $700 to $800. The soft spoken boxer said he doesn't talk much about his hobby with his fellow students but he did say that those who know about it are supporting his chances at the fight next month. "If I win this tournament I will be number one in the country," he added. The fundraiser will be held on Jan. 29 at the Gladiator Gym located at 120 N Main St. in Forked River. "We are raising money to help off set the costs of travel, food and lodging for Bobby. "He's looking forward to that tournament this year," Darling said. "He started boxing four years ago. After wearing out the other heavyweights in the gym we took trips to Atlantic City to spar with former world heavyweight champ, Bruce Seldon," he added. Darling said that "The Bull" is also hoping to compete in a national tournament this October in San Antonio, Texas, which is the first qualifying tournament for the Olympic trials. For information about the fundraiser call 732-581-3766.