Prison Service boxers will step back into the ring for the first time in years when the Republican Gym returns to national competition at the Guyana Boxing Association's National Novice Championships billed for September 25-27 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

The returning fighters are being prepared by former national champion Wincel "Naka B" Thomas, whose experience and demanding training programme are expected to produce a disciplined and determined contingent.

Their participation also renews a familiar rivalry among the country's disciplined services, with possible encounters against fighters from the Guyana Police Force and Guyana Defence Force expected to generate considerable interest.

GBA President Steve Ninvalle welcomed the Republican Gym's return, describing it as a significant step for both amateur boxing and the ongoing rehabilitation of inmates through sport.

"This is something we have been working on, and it's good to see the Prisoners back in boxing," Ninvalle said.
He said the development reflects progress made through collaboration among the GBA, Guyana Prison Service and Home Affairs Ministry, adding that Guyana remains uniquely positioned in the Caribbean through its efforts to establish and develop structured boxing programmes within the prison system.

The initiative is intended to promote discipline, positive personal development and rehabilitation while allowing participants to identify and cultivate their sporting abilities.

The National Novice Championships will give emerging fighters valuable exposure to competitive boxing, but the event carries added significance for the Republican Gym, whose boxers will enter the ring with an opportunity to demonstrate the results of their training and show that meaningful athletic development can take place within the prison system.

Their return adds another compelling dimension to the three-day championships, as the Republican Gym seeks to re-establish its presence alongside Guyana's recognised boxing institutions.