Amateur boxing resumes today
MISSED out on the amateur boxing show at Berlin November yesterday.
Worry not as the show returns once again today.
One of the most respected amateur coaches in the Eastern Cape, Khangelani Jack, was all praise for the platform given to his protégés at Berlin November.
This, as this platform would give the up-and-coming future world champions the exposure they need and bolster their confidence.
Today will even be better, he said, with all sorts of people – from the rich to the middle class – some of whom they were hoping would be touched and dig deep into their pockets.
Jack said yesterday’s turnout was disappointing but understandably so since it was a working day.
As such, boxers went easy on each other, saving their best energies for today.
“It is an honour for all of us amateur boxing people but most importantly for the young boxers to be part of a an event of this magnitude because such opportunities are a rarity to us,” said Jack.
“It may be a chance for some of these boxers to get recognised by individuals with deep pockets because some of these youngsters can do with an extra bit of help.
“But most importantly we are using this opportunity to keep those who will be heading to the national championships in two weeks time.”
Nine out of the 32 Eastern Cape unpaid boxers who are going to the nationals will be part of the Berlin boxing show today.
About 15 of the provincial lot are from Buffalo City Metro and Jack says such tournaments as the one today will help consolidate BCM’s status as a leader in boxing in the province.
A Mdantsane native himself, Jack promised spectators exhilarating bouts today, 20 in total – 15 boys and the remainder to girls.
It was of utmost importance to blend boys with girls for the acceleration of gender transformation in the sport.
“For too long ladies have been marginalised and the time has arrived that we we put them on par with boys because they are playing catch up,” said Jack. Yesterday’s results: Zukhanye Soso v Odwa Jobodwana (winner), Oyintanda Dyani (winner) v Lusizo Gunguluza, Linothando Blaai v Smamkele Mcoki (winner), Bathini Ngemntu (winner) v Cebo Moko, Aphelele Gebengana v Oyisa Gxekani (winner), Phakamani Teto (winner) v Asenathi Yawa, Lisozethu Zani v Inam Nonkonyana (winner), Bulumko Koka v Sive Nkqetho (winner), Athanathi Mxoli v Tisetso Matikinca (winner), Ayabulela Mashibini v Buhle Mhlophe (winner), Liyabona Ntyabontyi (winner) v Siseko Zonke, Awonke Mdutyulwa v Luthando Nkqetho (winner), Smamkele Maxuku (winner) v Asive Bavuma, Athenkosi Thongwana (winner) v Akhona Simayile). Females: Lindi Molo v Athule Tonga (winner). The boxing show is put together by ex-SA champion Jackie Gunguluza.