Amateur boxers showcase skill at Inkwenkwezi boxing tournament in Dunoon

Inkwenkwezi Boxing Club hosted a junior boxing tournament at the Dunoon recreational hall on Saturday November 2.

The participants came from boxing clubs stretching from Hermanus, Atlantis, Overberg, Hout Bay, Nyanga, Langa, Joe Slovo, Philippi, Delft and Dunoon.

Organiser, Mvumelwano Michael Thamela said the tournament is to get the developing pupils ready for 2025 and beyond.

“We hosted the tournament since the kids needed to play before the end of the year. The majority of the times gyms do not have rings. Our message is to get them ready for whatever event comes up,” said Thamela.

Black Stars United’s boxing coach Bonani Hlwatika, from Langa, said although most of his boxers were busy with school exams, the youngsters that were present, did well in the development event.

“Some of my boys were boxing for the first time. It was a good performance,” said Hlwatika.

Umanyano Boxing Club’s manager Thembelani Lingani said boxing puts food on the table for many families.

“The tournament was good for development. We’re pushing as much as we can although we don’t have support. For many black families, boxing has a history to put food on the table. Everything is on you. From amateur our boxers will have to turn professional. It was a great experience for the kids,” said Lingani.

Earlier this year, more than 14 cadets, Thamela adds, were unable to attend a national boxing event, due to funds.

“We struggle in boxing. The government isn’t assisting. We need as much support as we can in boxing. The kids couldn’t go to cadets. We think about these things.”