The 24-year-old inflicted a second-round stoppage on Blue Flames’ Charlie Miller in the semi-finals before defeating Erin Tynan, of Holmes Chapel Boxing Club, in the final to seal her first senior-level title at the tournament.
The win then saw her invited to an England development camp, with the 52kg ace showcasing her talents in Sheffield as this issue went to press.
“I’m absolutely buzzing,” the soldier, who combines training with her role as a section commander at ATC Pirbright, said. “Getting a big result like that has given me a huge confidence boost.
“I fought Erin last season at the nationals and stopped her in the first round, so I knew she would come for me.
“I moved forward, switched my attacks and angles and forced a standing count in all three rounds to get the unanimous decision.
“This competition is getting bigger each year and most of the girls here will be at the nationals, so getting the win shows I’m in a good position.”
Johnstone had not boxed prior to joining the army and was inspired to get involved by the success of other female personnel – many of whom have excelled on the international stage.
“After I won I was handed a letter from the England team,” she added. “I wasn’t expecting that. I will go along, do my thing and see what happens. I wouldn’t be in this position if it wasn’t for the army team.”
Cpl Terri-Leigh Stuart (REME) also triumphed at the event, while fellow team members Pte Kasharna Williams (RLC) and Gnr Lucy Kisielewska (RA) claimed bronze medals.
