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In The Corner with Francisco “Panchito” Bojado
Photo and Story
by Lori Steinhorst
August 3, 2004
To the surprise and delight of many of the young women at the 2004 Women’s
National Championships (July 27-31), the handsome and talented champion
Francisco “Panchito” Bojado showed up to support their efforts.
Panchito made his way through the crowd stopping for photo and autograph
opportunities…always encouraging and supportive. I was impressed with his
kindness and willingness to spend some time with anyone that asked it of
him.
I wondered what had brought him all the way to Spokane, Washington from Los
Angeles, California and asked him if he would meet with me for an interview.
We met the following day at noon.
I asked Panchito why he was attending the amateur women’s event and he told
me that he was there to support a former team mate of his, Elizabeth Quevedo.
He told me that Elizabeth had been very supportive of him as an amateur and
he wanted to be there for her. (Elizabeth went on to become National
Champion in the 145lb division)
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Bojado expressed his respect and appreciation for the young women in boxing.
He knows the hard work it takes first hand and he gives them credit for
sticking with it all the way through the tournament “even when it gets tough
he said, they try hard for that win.”
When I asked him how he felt about women in boxing, Panchito told me “I am
pretty open minded when it comes to women in boxing. I learned a lot from
Elizabeth in the gym. I saw how hard she worked, I respect that fact and I
wanted to show her I support her and the other women in this sport. I want
to go back, no matter what is happening in my career and spend time with the
kids in my gym, boys and girls. I want to be there for them. I want them to
know I care.
I knew he was speaking from his heart. Whatever he’s got, I hope it’s
contagious; the women in boxing would love to see that spread! |
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