Mandela’s boxing history inspires
A boxing tournament was held recently in Mamelodi to honour the late former president Nelson Mandela.
Residents in Mamelodi East hosted a boxing tournament in honour of the late former President Nelson Mandela who died last week.
Considering Tata’s earlier years in boxing, they decided to pay tribute to him by hosting a boxing tournament on Saturday night. They said they treasured the image of Madiba in his boxing clothes with his boxing gloves on.
The tournament was held in Rethabile Hall in Mamelodi East and teams from Moloto, Hammanskraal, Nkangala and four teams from Mamelodi participated in boxing and kick-boxing.
Recalling a young Madiba in the ring, Coach Hendrick ‘Star’ Nkosi (34) said: “Nelson Mandela loved boxing. He saw sport as a means to unite South Africa.”
Young boxer Mapule Shongwe (17) explained what an inspiration Madiba was to her: “Every time I am in the ring, it reminds me of Madiba. I would like to become a professional boxer and go overseas one day. That is my dream.”
Another young fighter, Kgoganyo Phiri (7), said Madiba had also inspired him to love boxing. “When I grow up, I want to be like Madiba and fight like him in the ring.”
Meanwhile, boxing coach Moses Manaka has invited the youth of Mamelodi to participate in boxing and kick-boxing.
They train at the Stanza Bopape Community Hall in Mamelodi from Monday to Thursday from 18:00 to 19:00.
Manaka said he was very happy with the turnout, especially from parents who support their children and as well as friends and relatives who supported the tournament. Enquiries: Moses Manaka on 073-317-9100.
