FORT BENNING, Ga., (Aug. 31, 2016) -- Scores of people lined up Aug. 27 to participate in the Sugar Bert National Title Belt Qualifier at Columbus State University for the chance to qualify for the national championship in November.
Amongst the many competitors, Fort Benning's 1st Lt. Logan Burns, 1st Battalion, 46th Infantry Regiment, All Army Boxing champion, participated in the event.
"I wanted to compete in the qualifier to gain more experience," said Burns. "To be honest though, I just love boxing."
Before the event began, Burns received a plaque from boxer Bert Wells in honor of Soldiers and their families.
Burns placed 2nd in the 165 pounds open elite division.
Burns stated that this was his fourth time competing in a national qualifier open to the public. He competed in the Golden Gloves qualifier twice and the Police Athletic/Activities League tournament once.
According to Burns, there are a number of differences between participating in a national qualifier versus competing in the Army tournaments.
"The type of fighter is a big difference," said Burns. "When you compete in a national qualifier, people tend to box in order to reach the Olympics or go professional. In a national qualifier, you're surrounded by an elite group of people that requires you to constantly be on your toes.
"In the Army, the mission comes first, then athletics," said Burns. "When you come to a national civilian qualifier, like this, their mission is boxing first."
Burns stated that he is grateful for the experience being in the Army has taught him. "The Army has matured me as a combatant, which is a good quality to have as a fighter."
Burns stated that any Soldier who is interested in boxing should check out the Fort Benning Boxing Team Facebook page or they can call Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation for more information on joining.
To the many sponsors that supported the Fort Benning Boxing Team, Burns wanted to thank the individual units who helped him compete in the tournament. He also wanted to thank Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation for providing an outlet to help keep Soldiers active and out of trouble.
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