Boxing boss sings praises after historic win
Boitumelo Khutsafalo | Wednesday April 29, 2015 18:00
Botswana finished as the best team after amassing 37 points. In the process, Botswana grabbed six silver and four gold medals.
South Africa came second with 18 points.
“This is a first in Botswana boxing history at regional level. Congratulations to boxers for the excellent results,” he said.
Botswana had sent a team of 10 boxers (eight men and two women) to the competition where a total of six countries, including the hosts took part. The team included among others, the Bagwasi brothers, Kabelo and Kagiso as well as two female boxers, Koketso Dipogiso and Pearl Morake.
“As BoBA executive, we want to thank every boxer, coach and individual person who participated in this journey. Botswana is a wonderful country with a proud record in boxing,” said Patlakwe.
Preparations for the championship kicked off at the beginning of this month with a total of 16 boxers. He said at that time they roped in experienced coaches, Khumiso Ikgopoleng, Master Luza, Othusitse Mogotsakgotla and Emmanuel Galeboe to prepare the team where a final team of 10 boxers was chosen. “Our two women lost in the finals, but put up a very good show. Our eyes are on Rio 2016 en-route to All Africa Games around September,” he added.
Patlakwe said for the boxers to have gotten this far, it goes to show that they have proven themselves to be a cut above their peers.
He told them that the route to success in boxing is a marathon and not a sprint despite all that is at stake. “When you step into the ring, you either win or learn,” he advised the pugilists.
Team coach, Luza said he has always told the boxers that the national team is no one’s home and that everyone who does not perform would be dropped.
He said he was happy that the country is doing well with several good boxers still having age on their side.
“We have very good young boxers who are still at school and therefore cannot participate in the elite competitions,” he said.
Meanwhile Patlakwe confirmed the departure of BoBA vice president, Tabona Phaladze who has resigned citing personal reasons.
He also confirmed that Ikgopoleng has left the Botswana National Sports Council (BNSC) as the sports development officer for greener pastures. He said they would sit down and map the way forward regarding the vacant vice presidency post.