The City of Santa Clarita is proud to welcome home International Boxing Champion Marlene Castro, who competed in the Zeta Enterprise Boxing Tournament  in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on Sunday, January 13, 2007.

 “It is an honor to have someone from our City internationally represent the Santa Clarita Community Center in the sport of Boxing,” commented Mayor Marsha McLean.  “It is a tremendous achievement to be named an international champion and we commend Marlene on her win,” she added.

Castro, age 14, attended the prestigious tournament, which is a precursor to becoming an Olympic contender, and was named the International Champion in her respective weight division.

In front of hundreds of spectators, Castro defeated one of Puerto Rico’s most talented female Boxers, Yanisa Martinez, who forfeited seconds before the start of the match.

Castro was honorably recognized by the Puerto Rico Boxing Commissions, the commission’s highest ranking officials and the mayor of the city.

Castro, who currently attends Placerita Junior High School, trains at the Community Center with volunteer Boxing Coach Juan M. "Superman" Jimenez.                                                  

For more information about the Santa Clarita Community Center or the Boxing program, please contact (661) 286-4006 or visit http://www.santa-clarita.com/cityhall/parks/communitycenter/.