Bujold closer to boxing in Olympics

THE CANADIAN PRESS

MEMBERTOU, N.S. -- Mandy Bujold is one step closer to qualifying for the London Olympics after claiming the Canadian women's boxing title at 51 kilograms.

The Kitchener, Ont., was declared the winner after Amanda Galle of Mississauga, Ont., Bujold's opponent in Friday's final, failed the morning medical due to an injury.

"It's disappointing that I won't be able to defend my title in the finals but it's part of the boxing game," Bujold said. "Anything can happen and it is out of my hands."

The victory locked up a spot in the world championships, which is also the Olympic qualifier, in China in May.

Bujold, a gold medallist at the Pan American Games in October, defeated Andree Beauchesne of Quebec to reach the final.

"I'm glad I got to get into the ring (Thursday) night for the semifinals to show my skill. I came here to win and I think I proved that last night," Bujold said. "This was another stepping stone to make my Olympic dream a reality, and I am looking forward to preparing for China and claiming my spot at the 2012 Olympics."

The two other female weight classes for Olympic boxing -- 60 and 75 kilograms -- were scheduled for Friday night.