The streets of Delft were alive with activity on Saturday as people made their way to Essenhout Primary School, where the Cape Town Metro Open Boxing Organisation (CTMOBO) hosted an amateur boxing tournament.
The school hall had been transformed with a boxing ring set up in the middle of the room and seating arranged around it for the spectators. Girls and boys from boxing clubs, primary and high schools in Cape Town, stretching as far as Atlantis, were ready to showcase their skills and compete for the championship.
The atmosphere was electric as the first bell rang and the first bout, out of 50 bouts, began. The fighters were evenly matched, and the crowd cheered as they traded blows. The vice president of the Western Cape Open Boxing Organisation, Mdingi Mvemve was present, watching the fights with a keen eye.
The primary school’s principal Luvuyo Twalo was also present, showing his support for the young boxers. He was proud of the school’s involvement in the tournament and the opportunity it provided for the pupils to display their talents.
As the day went on, the fights became more intense. Each bout was more exciting than the last, and the crowd was fully engaged, shouting encouragement and cheering on their favourite fighters.
In the end, more than 50 bouts were hosted, with girls and boys from all over Cape Town participating.
Grade 6 teacher and boxing coach at Essenhout, Sivuyile Ngwevela, standing with his assistant coach, Nkosohlanga Dwayi said the support shown by the community, councillor, teachers, parents and Shoprite made the children’s tournament a success.
“The kids enjoyed it, they were the centre of attention. These events keep them off the streets and busy. Sport is very important. They may not be good in school but excel in sport and build confidence,” said Ngwevela.
