Russia training for boxer Thabiso
MBABANE – Believe it or not Eswatini boxer Thabiso Dlamini has been granted a training scholarship and is currently at war in Russia.
The Russians are fighting with Ukraine with all parties exchanging fire for some months now, forcing others to migrate from their countries.
Nonetheless, it is believed there are parts of Russia that are considered safe and the boxer will be in one of those. Dlamini has secured a oneyear training scholarship with a top boxing facility in Russia.
It came through the considerable efforts of Eswatini Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (EOCGA) Board Member, Pearl Dlamini and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Maxwell Jele.
“This sponsorship has been issued by the President of the International Boxing Association (IBA), Uma Kremlyov in his personal capacity. This is an important step towards preparations for Paris 2024 Olympic Games. As we announced recently, our intention is to secure such opportunities for all our top athletes,” Jele said.
EOCGA CEO and the boxer arrived in Moscow, Russia yesterday after they left the country on Friday. Dlamini has already begun training in the facility.
However, Jele will stay for a few days in Russia to ensure that the athlete settles in well and facilitate the signing of the formal agreement which will spell out all the modalities of the sponsorship.
“We would like to take this opportunity to extend our sincere appreciation to the president of IBA and the Russian Boxing Association for this opportunity. I will further utilise this opportunity to meet and engage with the Russian Olympic Committee to explore possible partnership in the development of Eswatini athletes,” Jele said.
The sponsorship will, among other things, include training, provision of coach, accommodation, meals, competitions and flights.