Amateur Boxing Tournament hailed a success

THE YOUTH DAY amateur boxing tournament held at Pescodia High School in Roodepan over the weekend was a remarkable success, drawing enthusiastic participation and spectatorship.

The event, organised by Mosa Ntlangula, culminated in the crowning of four champions: the best female boxer, the best male boxer, the best away team boxer, and the overall Youth Day champion.

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Bragging rights were well distributed. The best female boxer was none other than Bonolo Obusitswe from Freedom Boxing Club and the best male boxer was Junior Molapo, also from Freedom Boxing Club. The best away boxer was Berno Kgooe from Van Zyl’s Rus, and the best boxer of the tournament was Junior Louw from Home Defenders Boxing Club.

“The boxers were hungry! They fought with so much passion! They put on a beautiful display of boxing,” exclaimed Ntlangula, the event organiser. “The officials were happy, as were the coaches! I myself am proud! Just seeing the excitement on the kids’ faces made my soul happy!

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“This is what this is all about – sparking that fire that will burn right through using the fuel of dedication and hard work to achieve their goals,” he added.

The tournament showcased the immense talent and determination of young boxers, who demonstrated exceptional skill and sportsmanship. Ntlangula emphasised the importance of boxing beyond its physicality, highlighting its role in teaching discipline, self-control, and self-defence.

“You know boxing is not all about violence; we need to make that clear,” Ntlangula explained to the DFA. “It’s about discipline; it teaches you self-control, in and out of the ring. Not only that, but it also teaches self-defence! It’s the ability to hit and not get hit!”

The benefits of amateur boxing extend far beyond the ring. According to Ntlangula, it is an excellent form of exercise that offers numerous physical and mental benefits.

“Amateur boxing is a high-intensity workout that improves cardiovascular health, increases endurance, and builds muscular strength. In addition, it can enhance hand-eye coordination, balance, and agility.

“Besides its physical advantages, amateur boxing also promotes mental toughness, self-discipline, and self-confidence. It requires focus, strategy, and quick decision-making, which can improve cognitive abilities and reduce stress levels,” Ntlangula further explained, adding, “Overall, amateur boxing is an excellent sport that can boost overall health and well-being, making it a great choice for people of all ages and fitness levels.”

“No man is an island; none of this would be possible without our sponsors and supporters,” Ntlangula acknowledged. “The boxers are already asking me for another tournament, and more children want to join boxing!”

The event would not have been possible without the support of key sponsors and contributors. Ntlangula extended heartfelt thanks to The Francis Baard Boxing Organisation, Dale van der Merwe, Dean Mokgoro, Sharifa Ferris, Charlie’s Cafe, and Bophepa Dry Cleaners.

The DFA also spoke to the chairperson of Freedom Boxing Club, Raymond Motobi, and it was clear he was thrilled with the results.

“We are over the moon with what our boxers have achieved,” he said. “Before the competition began, we predicted that we would secure the titles of best male and female boxer. Our two winners are my top fighters, and they demonstrated their prowess in the ring. They had a plan from the start, and both won their fights by knockout in the first round.

“Their victory has filled them with joy and will only motivate them to perform even better in the future. Overall, our boxers brought home five gold medals, and we couldn’t be happier.”

The Youth Day amateur boxing tournament not only celebrated the spirit of youth and sportsmanship but also ignited a passion for boxing among young participants, promising a brighter future for the sport in Roodepan and, hopefully, beyond.