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Patrick Ford
Image Descriptions: Patrick 'Pat' Ford was born in Orange on 11 May 1931 and fought with the CYMS Boxing Club under the guidance of Harry McDonald.
Pat started his professional career in May 1951 at Dubbo and just two years later in May 1953 won the Australian Lightweight title when he knocked out Frank Flannery in 10 rounds in Melbourne. He successfully defended the title in July 1953, and then in August he won the Empire Lightweight title from Frank Johnson over 15 rounds in Melbourne. In a return defence bout in October, Pat knocked out Johnson in 13 rounds.
In April 1954, Pat lost his Australian Empire title on points to Ivor Germaine, but then won the title back from Germaine in July with a points win over 15 rounds. Pat was only knocked out twice in his career, the second being in December 1953 in 4 rounds by Augustine Argote. Pat displayed great courage to take on Argote again in February 1954, and this time he reversed the decision with a points win over 12 rounds.
Pat Ford announced his retirement on 8 June 1955 with a record of 26 bouts, winning 16 by knockout, 5 on points, 2 losses by knockout, a loss on a foul and two points decisions against him.
Pat opened his own butcher shop in Orange and was always held in the highest regard by the community and is without doubt one of Orange's greatest sporting identities.
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