Torben has signed a long-term contract as professional boxer with Team Sauerland. This means a new chapter for Torben in his career as boxer has begun. A decision like this also means the ultimate goodbye to Torbens dream of going to the Olympics 2012.

But how can a determined amateur boxer like Torben, suddenly quit on a dream he has been following for years? Torben will try to answer some of these questions here.

Why will you not follow your dream of the Olympics? You still had a qualification chance in April?

It is correct that there is a final qualification chance in April in Istanbul, Turkey. Europe only has 2 spots left for the Olympics, so I would have to reach the final to achieve my goal. Tournaments involving Olympic qualification seem to have a small scent of politics involved, so it will be more than difficult for me coming from a small nation like Denmark to reach the final. That of course effects my motivation and I will not waste mine or others money and time if I do not believe 100% that I can reach my goal.

Why did you not go for WSB instead?

I felt it was time to try something totally new. Being in WSB would still leave me in the same environment. I want to challenge myself in new ways and stepping over as a fulltime pro is just what I am looking for.

Has money been any factor on your decision?

Not at all. If that was the case I would have gone pro years ago. Actually its more the other way around, I would never take money I don’t feel entitled too. So it was important for me to take the decision early after the World Championship, since I do not want Team Denmark or others to support me financially if I do not have the motivation that I can deliver.

Do you feel DABU helped you enough to reach your targets as amateur?

I think DABU has done everything they could with the limited funds available. Of course we are far behind more or less all competing countries. But DABU has evolved in a positive direction day for day over the years I have been around.

How is the temperature between you and DABU after your change?

I informed both DABU and Team Denmark immediately after my decision was taken. We leave the cooperation as good friends.

Any last words before you go to “the other side”?

I would like to send my thanks to all the people involved in DABU, Team Denmark and of course my fantastic club Pandrup BK. A BIG thank you to all the ones that helped and supported me as an amateur – not mentioning any names in fear of forgetting someone. I hope you will continue supporting me as pro.