By Chris Totobela
Sarah Baartman district boxers took part in the South African National Boxing Tournament in Willowvalle and a number of local fighters came back with a variety of medals.
The exciting tournament, under the auspices of the South African National Defense Force, took place in the Willowvale Indoor Sports Centre from 3 to 6 December 2024.
Almost all Eastern Cape district municipalities were represented, with the Western Cape province team as guests.
A number of boxers from Makhanda and Port Alfred made up the Sarah Baartman district team.
In the female section, Esona “The general” Peter, Sangenathi Valela and Lihlelethu Nzuzo brought home gold, while Amanda Ncaphayi and Port Alfred-based Yolisa Fudwana both won silver medals. Peter and Nzuzo’s bouts were voted the best bouts in their respective categories.
In the male section, Makhanda’s Khayelihle Prince and Port Alfred’s Alfa Ntunye won gold, while Linathi Zonke, Hlombelethu Sinxo, Thandolwethu Njovane and Liya Notyhawa, all won silver medals, with Mivuyo Bota settling for bronze.
According to Sarah Baartman Boxing Organisation’s (Sababo) deputy president, Ntsikelelo Maholo, this was a good showing by his boxers. “The standard of boxing was very high and our boxers did not disappoint us, and I was mostly impressed by our local boxers who gave everything in that ring.”
Maholo also sent a plea to his colleagues. “I would like our clubs and local structures to elect people that know boxing. If us as leaders can go to these elective congresses with a purpose to serve and develop the sport, not for personal gain or positions.”
It was a good showing by the local boxers, a testament to the abundance of talent in Makhanda.
