Welsh boxing star Lauren Price offers insight into the pressure and expectations facing boxers at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics, having experienced the pinnacle of success herself with a gold medal at the Tokyo Games in 2021.
As the reigning WBA world champion, Price is optimistic about two rising talents—Cindy Ngamba and Chantelle Reid—who both aim to follow in her footsteps in the middleweight category.
Ngamba, representing the refugee team, and Reid, competing for Britain, will make their Olympic debuts on Wednesday, both facing challenging bouts from the onset.
Price, who serves as a sparring partner for both athletes at the GB gym in Sheffield, commended their skills and potential. She highlighted Reid’s quick hands and Ngamba’s robust boxing intelligence and stamina, saying, “Both girls have a great chance at success.”
With a strong background, including training with elite champs like Savannah Marshall, Ngamba has gained significant experience. “She’s an absolute machine,” Price remarked, expressing confidence in Ngamba’s ability to clinch gold if she can manage her nerves during the competition.
Price credits her Olympic success in Tokyo to her composure and mental approach, emphasizing that controlling emotions and remaining strategic during contests is crucial. “It’s about staying relaxed and focused, especially against formidable opponents,” she explained.
As pressure mounts for Team GB with earlier losses impacting morale, both Reid and Ngamba are set for tough opponents on Wednesday. Reid will face Morocco’s Khadija Mardi, a former world champion, while Ngamba squares off against Tammara Thibeault from Canada, the 2022 middleweight world champion.
“Managing the weight of expectation is key,” Price advised. Reflecting on her own experiences leading up to the Olympics, she offered encouragement: “Take each fight as it comes and enjoy the journey. There’s a strong support system in place, and every fighter has put in the hard work.”
With the excitement building for the events in Paris, the boxing community eagerly anticipates the performance of these talented athletes as they strive for Olympic glory.
