Makana Amateur Boxing Organisation (Makabo) hosted a boxing tournament which saw boxers from three other municipalities coming to Grahamstown for the selection of the Cacadu district team.
Makana Amateur Boxing Organisation (Makabo) hosted a boxing tournament which saw boxers from three other municipalities coming to Grahamstown for the selection of the Cacadu district team.
More than 40 amateur boxers took to the stage and fought hard against their opponents at the Joza Indoor Sports Centre, but only 18 made it to the district team.
Eight of the 18 boxers are from Grahamstown, while others are from Ndlambe, Blue Crane and Sundays River municipalities. They were awarded with gold medals after fighting technically and showing their fitness and vast knowledge of boxing.
Makabo boxing coach Sakhiwo Duruwe said fresh boxing talent is emerging in Grahamstown. "I am happy to see the chidren we recruit and train fighting for awards like medals, because they were under pressure, harbouring some fears and doubts about winning or losing in the tournament." said Duruwe.
Grahamstown boxer Siphosethu Zingela said, "I beat my opponent because I listened to and respected the advice that my coaches preach everyday, and my fitness showed when I unexpectedly knocked Anele Steven from Sundays River municipality out on the second round."
Another Grahamstown boxer, Zikhona Skeyi was the only woman from Makana who fought in the tournament. Skeyi said she realised she needed some more training on side steps and fight styles after she drew with her opponent. Ndlambe boxer Richard Runeli said his confidence is the source of his motivation.
"Today my strength lead me to win both my matches by knockout within a minute's time," he said. "I managed to reduce my weight and I was strong to fight against any boxer they might have chosen for me," said a tenacious Makana boxer, Sandile Khalipha.
