EMOTIONAL tributes were paid to Alderney legend Midget Dupont at the weekend. Midge, as he was known to his family and friends, died 13 months ago and the island’s boxing club has been searching ever since for a way to honour his memory.
The club recently decided to place a plaque in the Fort Doyle gym where Midge spent so many hours and invited his wife, Violet, to unveil it on Sunday morning.
Father-of-eight Midge became involved with the Alderney Amateur Boxing Club in the early 70s after speaking to former boxer Fred Shaw. At first he concentrated on training members but quickly started fund-raising for the club before going on to become caretaker of Fort Doyle.
Paul Rose was one of the boxers Midge helped train. Now president of the club, he spoke touchingly about Midge’s contribution.
‘Midge had many roles. He was our trainer, fund-raiser and caretaker of the gym. He had great charisma and he loved helping people.
‘As a coach he would give his time to all the boys, always giving good advice and encouragement. Win or lose, he was always there.’
Paul went on to say Midge was brilliant at dealing with the club’s ‘bad boys’.
‘Unfortunately, not all the boys who have attended were angels and Midge had a very keen eye to spot the bad boys early on. It would not take very long before he would have a gentle word in their ear, so they found out very quickly that they would have to show respect to all within our club.
‘I think we can all recall just what Midge’s gentle word in the ear would actually entail at some point or another.’
Paul specifically recalled a trip to Germany. ‘I remember one occasion when we travelled to Cologne to box. As a young and rather naïve team we were totally fascinated and intrigued by the many adult clubs and liberated activities that were typical in those days. Midge was kept busy distracting us and I remember him saying, “You boys are all boxing in another few hours. Save your energy until then!”.’
Paul wrapped up his speech by saying the club’s stature owed a lot to Midge.
‘Over the years the club has enjoyed success and gained much respect. A successful club needs a good base and thanks to Midge and his excellent maintenance skills, we still have a gym today.’
Violet unveiled the plaque dedicated to her husband, while son Nigel spoke on her behalf.
He said his father had been put off fighting after one particular incident.
‘Having once been punched on the nose, Midge decided boxing wasn’t his thing, but he was into the fitness side of training.’
He went on to say his father was proud of Paul, as well as all the other boxers he had trained, and that Fred was a ‘great mate at all times’.
Article posted on 21st November, 2008 - 9.00am
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