Youngsters rumble in the ring for Dunoon Boxing Championship
17 May 2021
The City kicked off its 8th annual boxing tournament in Dunoon this weekend, as part of the ongoing Recreation and Parks Department youth development programmes held at community-based Recreation Hubs.
A group of 35 male and female aspiring boxers between the ages of nine and 23 participated in the knockout rounds to progress to the next level of the competition for the coveted first place.
‘Since its inception in 2012, interest in the sport has grown, particularly among female boxers. Twelve females participated this year, which helps to break down stereotypes about the sport being only suitable for men. Not only does a good gender mix promote sport as part of leading an active lifestyle, but the training required months before builds confidence, discipline and skills,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Zahid Badroodien.The City has a strong partnership with Inkwenkwenzi Boxing Club which , supported by the federation, ensured that preventative measures were taken for Covid-19 compliance throughout the day. The club has been dedicated to reviewing event and training protocols in order to resume activities because boxing has proven to be a positive alternative that the youth gravitate towards, curbing antisocial behaviour like gangsterism and crime in vulnerable communities.
Another highlight was the introduction of body building as part of the new recreational activities on offer at the Dunoon Recreation Hub. Organisers of the body-building segment emphasised that it was not only about posing and being able to flex muscles, but in order to reach that level of fitness takes hard work, dedication and a positive body image.
Congratulations to all the participants and winners:
- 1st place: Inkwenkwezi Boxing Club
- 2nd place: 9sai Boxing Club
- 3rd place: Sisonke Boxing Club
A special award was also given to Boikarabelo Lefusa from Inkwenkwezi Boxing Club for being the best boxer of the tournament.
End
Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
