Battle of the Badges this Saturday at Barona

Last year’s winning team, Team Unified, included (l to r) Gabrielle Nasworthy, David Rodriguez, Gabrielle Romero and Carlos Hernandez shown here posing with their coaches and the coveted trophy. Photo: Jim Wyatt

Back in January, Carlos Barragan, the Executive Director of the National City Community Youth Athletic Center extended his annual invite to the SDPD, NCPD, CVPD, ECPD, USBP, OPD, ECPD, Probation, ICE, SDFD, Sheriffs, Corrections and the Armed Forces, which includes all branches, the Coast Guard, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force to compete in the 10th annual Battle of the Badges. Since that time the boxers and boxing teams have been honing their skills for the big day. On Saturday, the above teams and individual boxers will compete for the coveted Battle of the Badges trophies and team trophy.

In advance of Saturday’s event, Carlos Barragan Jr., the well-known boxing trainer, wanted to express his deep appreciation to all who have helped in this year’s event. “Special thanks to the Barona Band of Mission Indians and Barona Valley Ranch Resort and Casino for opening their doors one more time for the 10th Annual Barona Battle of the Badges. This year’s event will take place this Saturday, May 19, 2012, Armed Forces Day, starting at 4 p.m.

This year, as in past years, they will have a host of celebrities present, from the World of Professional Boxing, boxers like the former Light Heavyweight Champion of the World, Paul Vaden, Super Bantamweight sensation Chris Martin (23-2-3) and one of Golden Boy’s top prospects Antonio Orozco (14-0, with 10 KOs), and boxing promoter, Bobby DePhilippis, who will soon be inducted into the California Boxing Hall of Fame, plus many San Diego Community leaders. The 10th Year celebration will likely outshine every show that has preceded it. I guess that statement is a no-brainer. Each year you think they can’t possibly have a better show and yet they do.

Also at this year’s event, they’ll be presenting four scholarships to local youths to help them make their way up the scholastic achievement ladder.

If you need further information or would like to be a sponsor, you can contact Carlos Barragan@ cbarragan@cyacyouth.org.

Office: 619.474.2922, Fax: 619.474.4646, Cell: 619.694.6937