Barney Clarke facts for kids

Barney Owen Angus Clarke (born April 6, 1927, died March 8, 1999) was a famous champion boxer from New Zealand. He was known for being a very strong light heavyweight boxer.

Barney Clarke's Early Life and School Days

Barney Clarke was born in Auckland, New Zealand. He went to St Peter's College. He was one of the first students there. At his school, boxing was a popular sport. The teachers, called the Christian Brothers, encouraged boys to learn boxing. This helped them to stand up for themselves against bullies. Each year, the school held boxing championships. These exciting events usually took place at the Municipal Hall in Newmarket.

Barney Clarke's Boxing Achievements

Amateur Boxing Success

Barney Clarke was a top amateur boxer. He won the title of New Zealand Amateur Light Heavyweight champion. He held this important title in both 1947 and 1948.

Becoming a Professional Champion

On May 23, 1949, Barney Clarke became a professional boxer. He fought Tommy Downes in a big match. Clarke won the fight after 15 rounds. He won by points, meaning judges decided he was better. This fight happened at the Dunedin Town Hall. About 2000 people watched the exciting match. With this win, Barney Clarke became the New Zealand Professional Light Heavyweight Champion.

Defending His Title

Barney Clarke worked hard to keep his championship title. He successfully defended it two times. He fought Tommy Downes again and also Ray Stevens. However, on August 18, 1949, he lost his title. Ray Stevens defeated him in Wanganui. This fight also went for 15 rounds and was decided by points.

Barney Clarke's Professional Record

During his professional boxing career, Barney Clarke had 13 fights. He won 6 of these fights, with one win being a knockout. He lost 6 fights, and one of those was a knockout. One fight ended in a draw. His last professional fight was on March 1, 1952. It took place at the Mangakino Domain in Mangakino. Barney Clarke was quite tall for a boxer, standing 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm). He usually weighed about 73 kg (about 11.50 stone).

Barney Clarke's Passing

Barney Clarke passed away on March 8, 1999. His ashes were buried at the North Shore Memorial Park in Albany.