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Alderney boxer Billy Le Poullain has described his heartbreak after losing his first fight, on day one of the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
Mr Le Poullain is the first boxer from the Bailiwick to reach the Commonwealth Games standard and he competed under Sarnian colours for Team Guernsey.
The boxer stepped into the ring in the early hours of this morning BST to take on Gul Zaib of Pakistan. Those who saw the fight live said the "decision went against him". Mr Le Poullain posted on his own Facebook page saying "Heartbroken is an understatement.
"Lost my fight today, under performed when it mattered most. I’m going work harder than ever for my next competition. The road to success is never easy, but one I’m sure I’ll complete! Until next time."
His family and friends have rallied round to offer support with Norman Butel among those offering words of comfort. He said "The commentators thought you were the clear winner, the judges saw it differently! Keep your head up, you have achieved so much already and there is more to come. You have done so much for Alderney and Guernsey boxing, you deserved so much more. Keep your head up!"
Above: Billy Le Poullain speaking to the Guernsey Commonwealth Games Association before his fight
Elsewhere there was more success for Team Guernsey.
In the swimming pool, Tom Hollingsworth has made the semi final of the 100m Backstroke. He came 6th in heat one, in a time of 57.61 to qualify 16th to claim his place in the next round which will be held this evening (AEST).
Pictured: Guernsey's Tom Hollingsworth competing in the pool
In the men's 50m Butterfly, Miles Munro finished 5th in heat 6 in a time of 24.76 meaning he missed out on a semi final spot by just one place.
Also competing on Day One at the Gold Coast Games, Josh Lewis took part in the Triathlon, finishing 24th in a time of 58.45. There were 36 competitors with South Africa taking the gold medal ahead of Australia and Scotland.
Pictured: Josh Lewis heading for the finish line
In the Bowls competition, there have been mixed fortunes for Team Guernsey on Day One.
Lucy Beere lost her first game, against Laura Daniels of Wales 15-21, but she beat Rachel Macdonald of Jersey by 21-12.
Pictured: Lucy Beere playing at the Commonwealth Games
Pictured top: Billy Le Poullain in action at the 2018 Commonwealth Games
All pictures and social media content from the Guernsey Commonwealth Games Association. You can follow Team Guernsey on Facebook here or via Twitter here.
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