Golden finish for best boxers

By Amy Donaldson

Deseret News

Published: Sunday, May 10, 2009

Like most fathers, Jose Benavidez hoped his son would be good at sports.

It turned out his son was gifted, but not in the sports he first attempted.

"I tried to put him in other sports like t-ball and basketball, but he really was not good at those," said the elder Benavidez, who coached his son to a 141-pound National Title at the 2009 Golden Gloves National Championship Saturday night at the Salt Palace.

More than 12,000 boxing fans flocked to the Salt Palace to watch the week-long iconic tournament featuring more than 300 fighters from around the country.

At 16, Benavidez has already won more than 100 bouts and earned four national titles.

In addition to earning an individual title, Benavidez Junior was part of Nevada's team title.

Utahn Alex Canez was awarded the sportsmanship award for the 178-pound division.

Jesus Magdaleno, Nevada, won the Bill Daniels Courage Award for "courage both inside and outside the ring."

"It's an honor ... I can't even find the words," said the teen, who said he got into a lot of trouble before taking up boxing. "It's so great.

He earned a $1,500 scholarship and a championship at 119 pounds Saturday night.

Louie Byrd, Colorado-New-Mexico, won the Golden Boy Award, which was presented by Utah's own Gene Fullmer, as well as the 112-pound title in one of the night's most exciting fights.

"The competition was a lot firmer and stiffer this year," said Byrd, who won a National Golden Gloves title at 106 pounds last year. "That was a tough fight. I know he knew he had to step up his game ... I just needed to take care of it."

His dream is to earn a spot on the U.S. Olympic Team in 2012.

"I know as a small guy, it would be tough for me to make it as a professional," said Byrd, who was introduced to boxing by his sister.

"My dad asked me to get in the gym to stay in shape for football and I just fell in love with it," he said.

Byrd's friend, Robert Rodriguez won the 125-pound title.

"I boxed as a child," said Jeff Rodriguez, "and I grew up across the street from our gym."

Robert asked his father if he could tag along, and finally he agreed.

"I really didn't want him to," said the senior Rodriguez. "It's a crazy life. But I signed him up for the Junior Olympics and he won the whole thing. Now it's 11 years later."

As the amateur boxing tournament is a non-profit event, organizers are still accepting tax-deductable donations. The money goes to cover the costs of hosting the tournament and to support local boxing clubs. Contributions can be sent to Rocky Mountain Golden Gloves at 9720 S. 1300 East W200, Sandy, Utah, 84094.

E-MAIL: adonaldson@desnews.com