CNN/SI - SI for Women - Spotlight: Jean Martin, Boxer

Spotlight: Jean Martin, Boxer

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Posted: Monday April 05, 1999 10:31 AM

Martin is looking for a pair of Golden Gloves.

Born: November 29, 1970

Residence: Brooklyn, New York

Upcoming Events: New York Golden Gloves Boxing Championships, Madison Square Garden, New York, April 8-9, Women's National Championships, Scranton, Pa., April 20-24

Worth Watching Because: Martin, the No. 2-ranked women's boxer in the U.S., returns to the Mecca to defend her New York Golden Gloves title on April 9. Martin, who fights in the 139-pound weight class, advanced to the championship bout after knocking off 1996 Golden Gloves champ Peggy Donovan-Ward in the semifinal--a 3-2 decision that ended in a furious exchange of punches. In the final Martin will square off against Evelyne Mock.

Since female boxers were first allowed to enter Golden Gloves in 1995, the number of women registered to compete in the event has more than doubled to 49. Martin, 28, took up boxing just two years ago after reading a flier which said lose weight, learn how to box. At the time Martin weighed 185 pounds and was just looking to get in shape, but after watching the 1997 women's Golden Gloves she realized that she also wanted to fight. A year later, and 50 pounds lighter, Martin won a 1998 New York Golden Gloves title in the 139-pound weight class and became USA Boxing's national runner-up.

After Martin fights to keep her title at the Garden, she heads back to the Women's National Championships. Martin is eager to return to Scranton, where last year she lost in the final to Denise Lutrick when the referee stopped the bout in the second round.

Martin fights with a defensive style. She has the patience to let opponents come at her and the skill to respond with razor sharp combinations. Poised and polished in the ring, Martin has what it takes to be a contender.

Greatest Success: Winning the 1998 New York Golden Gloves Championship in the 139-pound weight class.

Quote/Unquote: "I told Ray, [trainer Ray Fiore] train me harder than you have ever trained anybody. I have to win."

Cool Fact: When Jean isn't fighting in the ring, she's fighting street crime as New York City detective.

Come back soon for a new women's sports Spotlight.

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