Rising Star: 8-Year-Old Penelope Gallegos from Jacksonville Eyes Big Win in Forney

JACKSONVILLE, Texas (TXAN 24) – At just eight years old, Jacksonville native Penelope Gallegos is quickly becoming one of East Texas’ rising stars in the boxing world.

Known around the gym for her focus and fierce combinations, Penelope has already built a name for herself through a string of standout performances at youth boxing events across the region. Her coaches say she trains with the intensity of someone far beyond her age.

“She’s got that natural drive,” said her father who is also her trainer. “You don’t have to tell her twice to get to work and she’s always ready to go.”

Next month, Gallegos will take her talents to Forney, where she’s scheduled to compete in a well known youth boxing showcase. The event is expected to draw young fighters from across Texas, giving Penelope another chance to show why she’s considered one of the top up-and-coming athletes in her division.

For her family and supporters back home in Jacksonville, the trip to Forney is more than just another match and it’s the next step in what could be a long and promising career.

“She’s representing Jacksonville every time she steps in that ring,” her father said proudly. “And she’s just getting started.”

Stay tuned to TXAN 24 News for coverage of Penelope’s upcoming bout in Forney and continued updates on East Texas’ next generation of champions.