Manchester Histories Festival 2026 | Champs Camp Open Day
Join us for an afternoon exploring the Moss Side Boxing & Athletics Association and the Champs Camp Archive Project.
This special event will share the story of the Moss Side Boxing & Athletics Association and the late Phil Martin, founder of Champs Camp, alongside an exhibition of photographs charting the gym’s journey over the years. Visitors if able will also have the chance to experience a guided tour while the gym is in action.
You will be introduced to the Champs Camp Archive Project, which is dedicated to preserving the legacy and telling the stories of the UK’s first Black-led boxing gym.
Founded in Moss Side in the 1980s, Champs Camp was created in response to social deprivation and unrest. Phil Martin transformed a derelict former Co-op building into a thriving boxing gym, offering young people a safe space, discipline, and opportunity. At its peak, it was home to four British champions.
Today, the gym continues to train young people and professional fighters, carrying forward Phil Martin’s legacy. The Camps Camp Archive project highlights an important chapter in Black British history, ensuring its story is recognised and remembered.
Free to attend, with donations welcome. Book your tickets on here.
Champs Camp Archive Project is supported by Manchester Histories, the University of Manchester and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery Players.
