Nelson boxing legend passes

Legendary Nelson boxing coach Les Rackley Snr. has passed away, age 92.

Les' renowned gym, the Bishopdale Scout Den, was the breeding ground for many famous boxers including his own sons to national and international acclaim.

Described as a fiery perfectionist, Les always sent his boxers into the ring well equipped to acquit themselves with honour.  

His fighters claimed 55 New Zealand titles, 20 South Island titles and more than 50 provincial titles between 1968 and 1986.

Les himself fought as a welterweight in England, learning his craft in the army and the merchant navy before immigrating to New Zealand in 1949.

He coached and trained New Zealand boxing teams from 1972 to 1982, a period which included the 1974 and 1982 Commonwealth Games and the Oceania Games in 1973 and 1975.

Les' funeral will be held at Marsden House 11am on Thursday, June 10.