While the five-eighths mile racing oval is accustomed to settling the stage for numerous clashes among equine contestants throughout the year at Rosecroft Raceway, the boxing ring on the third floor of the clubhouse dining room could provide the pathway for a pair of local fighters to national prominence.
This Saturday evening, April 26, while the racing oval will be dark since live harness racing is held only on Monday and Wednesday evenings, the boxing ring and spectator area will be bustling as the track hosts the Golden Gloves Regional Championships.
Waldorf residents Alexandra Damian and Luis Portillo, both recent Maryland champions in their respective weight classes, will seek to earn a national bout.
Portillo will face Jamar Dunn of Lynchburg, Va., in the 154-pound open division bout slated as the 15th of 19 fights on the card in the regional event designed for residents of Maryland, Washington, D.C., Delaware, Virginia and North Carolina. The winners of the open division fights on Saturday night will advance to the Golden Gloves National Championships in Tulsa, Okla, May 11-18.
Damian will face Gabrielle Purnell of Woodbridge, Va., in the 143-pound, novice division bout slated as the fourth fight on the program.
Gates open at 6 p.m. with live music offered before the fights commence at 7 p.m. General admission tickets are $30, reserved seating is available for $40 and ringside seats are $50. For ticket information, call 301-843-6165.
