WATCH: Event helps rising boxing stars find their feet
Syringa Park's Boxing Night entertained spectators but most importantly, guided upcoming boxing talent in the right direction.
Boxing is a sport that has regained its popularity on the West Rand and when stepping into the ring, these sportsmen believe that it transforms one from a boy to a man.
On the evening of November 30, Syringa Park hosted their fight night charity event to help upcoming boxers find their feet and also give them access to equipment as well as the opportunity to grow in the sport.
A competitor at the event, Marlon Dunn, said they have created a space where youngsters can train, learn, and grow under more experienced coaches and fellow boxers at no cost to themselves. Essentially this is a space where if a boxer has a dream of being stronger, faster and more confident, they create the road map for their boxing career.
“So, what’s the trade-off? It’s paying it forward, an investment in youngsters that steers them away from crime, drugs, and self-destructive mindsets. Youngsters have a lot more these days to contend with in terms of negative decision making and we are endeavouring to make real adjustments and creating tangible alternatives,” Marlon explained.
He continued the average boxer requires gloves, headgear, hand wraps, boxing boots, skipping ropes and so many other essential items all of which they can’t afford and without this, they can’t progress.
“Our initiative aims at moving the narrative forward and getting these young champs over the line. We dream big for the young guns in our stable, and if you look at how rapidly boxing is changing, we feel we can align our goals with those opportunities,” he believes.
“Our charity boxing matches are aimed at the private sector – allowing people with the means to come through, be thoroughly entertained and do good. It’s a win-win … we believe in relationships with our sponsors have become easy collaborations as we all share a common goal, to create a culture of great nights out whilst building youngsters’ futures,” Marlon concluded.
The Krugersdorp News attended the event, where 15 matches of different weight classes took place.
It was evident that it was a difficult fight for the competitors, as the ring was wet, and grip was a challenge for them.
The main fight at the end of the evening was between local boxer Riccardo du Plessis and Andre Mulumba, where after three rounds, it was decided as a tie.
