Top local boxer, Siphosethu Zingela, showed himself to be a star in the making when he won the silver medal at the SA Games last week. Affectionately known by his supporters as the 'attacking lion', he demonstrated his skill from the start by knocking out his first round opponent in the opening match of the tournament.
The fifth annual SA Games, a youth event hosted by Sport and Recreation South Africa (SRSA) was hosted by Polokwane in the Limpopo Province from 2 to 5 October, and was open for participation to athletes with or without disabilities, between the ages of 13 and 19.
Top local boxer, Siphosethu Zingela, showed himself to be a star in the making when he won the silver medal at the SA Games last week. Affectionately known by his supporters as the 'attacking lion', he demonstrated his skill from the start by knocking out his first round opponent in the opening match of the tournament.
The fifth annual SA Games, a youth event hosted by Sport and Recreation South Africa (SRSA) was hosted by Polokwane in the Limpopo Province from 2 to 5 October, and was open for participation to athletes with or without disabilities, between the ages of 13 and 19.
The Games are billed as one of the largest multi-coded sports tournaments on the South African sporting calendar, and feature about 6000 participants from eight provinces, participating in rugby, athletics, boxing, cricket, football, goal ball, hockey, golf, gymnastics, netball, swimming, table tennis and tennis, amongst others.
Addressing the athletes, Sport and Recreation Minister, Fikile Mbalula, said the Games should give the youth reason to start afresh and see participation in sport as better than involvement in crime and using drugs. He urged the youth to see themselves as part of the solution to our social ills.
Zingela, 16, was representing the Eastern Cape together with Ayanda Loteni, Azinga Fuzile, Xolani Fula and Zukile Dyantyi.
"I was well prepared for the tournament and my faith was that I must not lose the first fight," said Zingela, who went on to win his first fight by knock out, in round two. He faced a strong opponent in the second fight, but finally won on points. Zingela went on to lose the final, also on points, in an entertaining match that had the audience on its feet and shouting.
Mfuzo boxing club coach, Luyanda Dibela, said the competition was very strong and he was proud of Zingela's discipline throughout the tournament. Dibela, who won the best official award, also praised the tournament itself which he felt had been very successful. "I was awarded because of my discipline and respect throughout the tournament,' said Dibela. He added that only humanity can make it possible for a man to achieve his destiny.
Kholekile Nogxabela, who provided funding to the Mfuzo boxers, was delighted with the results they achieved and told Grocotts Mail, "I want them to be strong and I will support them to go forward."
