LOCAL Senedd Member Samuel Kurtz MS recently hosted a special screening of the British documentary Fighters at the Senedd in Cardiff Bay, in partnership with Great Britain Disability Boxing and Pembroke and Pembroke Dock Amateur Boxing Club.

The screening brought together supporters of disability sport from across Wales.

The powerful film explores disability, identity and resilience through the lens of amateur boxing. Fighters follows several individuals, including Amelia, a young local deaf boxer preparing for her first bout, and Matt Edwards, a lower-limb amputee determined to secure his amateur boxing licence as the first step towards achieving his dream of turning professional. The documentary also highlights the wider barriers disabled people can face in sport and society.

Chris McEwen of Pembroke and Pembroke Dock Amateur Boxing Club, who features in the film, attended the screening. The club was named Parasport Club of the Month in 2021 in recognition of its work supporting people with disabilities and runs a wide range of inclusive boxing sessions across the county.

Samuel Kurtz MS said: “Chris is a passionate advocate for boxing and for our community. He works tirelessly to ensure that opportunities in sport are open to everyone, regardless of ability.

“Sport is a fantastic social mobiliser, and working with Chris to bring this film to Cardiff Bay has been an immense pleasure. Fighters is one of the most inspiring projects I’ve ever been involved in. It shows not only what can be achieved in the ring, but what is possible when barriers are challenged and opportunities are opened up.”

Chris McEwen said: “Boxing should be accessible to all. This film shows the determination it takes to break down barriers, but it also demonstrates why inclusive clubs matter. Our aim is simple, to ensure that anyone who wants to take part feels welcome and supported.”