Francie Barrett is to remain in amateur boxing despite rumours of an impending move to the professional ranks. The Olympic Galway light welterweight, who was bitterly disappointed following his defeat by Seanie Barrett of Cork in the national final, has confirmed that he has no intention of going to the paid ranks. Consequently he has been included in a six man team to make a two match tour of New Zealand next month.

The IABA standing committee named the team for New Zealand at its meeting on Saturday. The reigning light welterweight champion Seanie Barrett of Rylane Cork is unable to travel owing to a family wedding.

Francie Barrett is delighted with the chance which obviously leads to the all important Olympic qualifying tournaments in the Autumn.

But Association President Brendain O'Conaire warned at Saturday's meeting "It will be very difficult for our boxers to qualify for the Sydney Games."

The team for New Zealand is: Feather - Bernard Dunne (CIE); Light - Aodh Carlyle (Sacred Heart), Francie Barrett (Olympic); Welter - Neil Gough (St Paul's); Middle - Conal Carmichael (Holy Trinity); Heavy - Stephen Reynolds (St Josephs).

Damien McKenna, the Holy Family, Drogheda, bantamweight is a late call up for the six man team of champions to compete at the world championships in Houston, Texas from August 17th to 28th.

The team is - Fly - Liam Cunningham (Saints); Bantam - Damien McKenna (Holy Family, Drogheda); Feather - Bernard Dunne; Light - Aodh Carlyle; Welter - Neil Gough; Heavy - Stephen Reynolds .