Women boxing revived in Jozi

30 August 2015

 

Women boxing is alive and kicking in Johannesburg, Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Development Councillor Chris Vondo declared after watching two exciting bouts featuring women pugilists at the Cosmo City Multipurpose Centre in Region C at the weekend.

 

In what was an entertaining finale to National Women’s Month activities in Johannesburg, Natalie “Lady Killer” Banie and Melissa “Lady Jake” Miller went toe-to-toe in a thrilling 10-round match cheered on by more than 200 local residents.

 

Banie, a Ugandan, beat Martins of Eldorado Park on a unanimous points decision. In another spat involving women boxers, Bongane Vukeya knocked out Maria Martins in the first round of their scheduled four. The two bouts formed part of an eight-fight bill staged by the City in partnership with eThembeni Promotions. The tournament was also witnessed by ward councillor Noni Raphata and the City’s Director of Sport and Recreation, Siyanda Mnukwa.

 

MMC Vondo said the tournament was one of many that would be staged in Cosmo City. Similar events had already been held in Lenasia in Region G and Meadowlands in Region D.

 

“This tournament is part of ongoing efforts to promote and revive what was once a popular sport, particularly in townships. I’m very pleased with tonight’s turnout. This is very exciting because this tournament, during Women’s Month, forms part of the boxing revival programme.

 

“Boxing has historically been a men’s sport. These women who fought tonight are an inspiration to the youth. Sport is a game changer among the youth and we are making boxing a priority sporting code. It’s going to get the recognition it deserves from now onwards,” MMC Vondo said.

 

The City has a partnership with the Professional Boxing League in its endeavour to promote boxing in disadvantaged areas. MMC Vondo said the City had in the past financial year assisted several boxing clubs and federations by giving them access to venues at no cost, supplying equipment and providing municipal services.

 

Councillor Rapata praised the City for bringing boxing back to the townships.

 

“I was very impressed by the tournament. This is big for Ward 100 and signals that boxing is coming back,” she said.

 

Councillor Rapata said there was already a growing interest about the sport in Cosmo City. Local children have joined boxing clubs, which use the Cosmo Complex for training purposes.

 

“The City is doing great things here in Cosmo City and the community can see what is being done to uplift them,” said Councillor Raphata.