Kempton Park brothers ready for SA boxing championships

Two of Kempton Park’s rising boxing stars, brothers Danny and Connor In’T Veld, are gearing up for the South African Championships in October with determination, discipline, and a shared dream of going professional.

For Danny, the upcoming championships are an exciting opportunity.

“I’m not stressed as I feel well prepared,” he said confidently.

Connor, who narrowly missed out on the SA title in last year’s finals, is motivated by the chance to come back stronger.

ALSO READ: Boxing fans flock to Emperors Palace for ‘The Coronation’ tournament

“I’m prepared and ready for revenge,” he added.

The pair look back fondly on their proudest moment in the ring: winning their first national titles in 2023 with their family cheering from the sidelines. Since then, they’ve grown quicker, stronger, and sharper thanks to relentless training.

Boxing runs deep in the family. Inspired and supported by their father, who has been their biggest influence, the brothers dedicate themselves fully to the sport.

Their training schedule is a gruelling six days a week, balancing home coaching sessions with sparring at their club.

Fortunately, homeschooling allows them the flexibility to pursue their boxing careers while still keeping up with their education.

ALSO READ: Boxing academy unites teams in Ekurhuleni

Discipline extends beyond the ring. Maintaining weight through strict diets and recovery routines, including regular sports massages, forms a vital part of their preparation.

“Diet is very important as we have to maintain our weight. Recovery is just as important; if we’re sick, we rest,” they explained.

Both have faced challenges that shaped their journey. For Danny, the unknowns of his first national competition and a fight against a heavier opponent tested his grit. Connor’s toughest moment was bouncing back from his only career loss after more than 50 fights.

“The changes that come after a loss are tough. Your whole training programme changes,” he reflected.
But motivation never strays far.

“You remind yourself why you are doing this. It will be worth it in the end; there’s the opportunity to become professional one day,” they said.

Representing Kempton Park brings with it a sense of pride and pressure.

ALSO READ: Nova fighters shine at kickboxing tournament

“You want to win not only for yourself but for your club and community,” they agreed.

That community, alongside their family, plays an irreplaceable role in their success.

“Family is everything. Without them we wouldn’t be where we are today.”

Looking beyond October, Danny and Connor dream of training and competing overseas, aiming for the World Championships and even the Olympics before turning professional.

Their advice to young aspiring boxers in Kempton Park reflects their drive and humility:

Danny: “Don’t box hard, box smart. Work hard on your dreams and never give up.”

Connor: “Don’t become me, become better. If you look up to me, aim to be better than me. That’s how you’ll achieve your goal.”
Ahead of the championships, the brothers have a message for their supporters:

“Expect that we will give our all to make everyone proud. Expect greatness, and most importantly, watch the championships and see how we do. Your support means the world to us.”