Flying start for OT in boxing tourney

THATO KALA
Correspondent | Monday January 28, 2013 00:00

The 52 kilograms former Olympian fought and excelled in an upper weight division as he wanted a more competitive opponent. He took the fight to Bareeleng in the 56 kilograms division from the first bell and rained jabs on him to signal his intention to win the bout. He built on his dominance with his technical superiority and hardly showed any signs of rustiness like his opponent.

His good reflexes, intelligence, punch accuracy and better-than-average hand speed proved too much for Bareeleng. The multiple award-winning Oteng would often draw his determined opponent closer to him and then counter-punch him. Bareeleng's failed to react appropriately and could not track back each time his more experienced opponent charged at him. Oteng continued to dominate in the second round as his opponent started showing signs of fatigue.

The third round was the clumsiest for Bareeleng perhaps because he was weary and frustrated. UB coach, Master Luza said he was content with OT's start to the year. 'He was fine especially considering he has only had one sparring session. This was more of a sparring session for him and it is good his opponent was rough because when he goes for international tournaments, that is what he is likely to get,' Luza said.

National team boxer, Mooketsi Lekgetho of UB Club narrowly beat Marshal Mokgwaela 18-17 in a closely contested bout in the 52 kilograms division. Lekgetho used tactical superiority to edge his persistent opponent.Midway through the second round, Lekgetho looked exhausted. Despite being worn-out, he managed to exploit the openings created in his opponent's guard.

He took advantage of Mokgwaela's mistakes and gained an attacking advantage to stay ahead.  His well-rounded defensive skills helped him as he often blocked his opponent and immediately released punches. BMC's Opelo Modungwa eased past Mooketsi Kgakantse of DTCB in another 52 kilograms bout, while Kutlwano Ogaketse of DTCB edged Walter Botsheleng 8-7 in a tightly contested fight.

SSKB's Keaotshaba Maoketsa beat Oratile Kgalaeng 13-11 in the 49 kilograms category. In an interesting duel, Thusoetsile Lekapang of BMC retired a few minutes into the second round of his 52 kilograms bout against Thabo Santu of SSKB. There was a total of 33 bouts on the day.

Botswana Boxing Association (BoBA) competitions manager, Tsheko Phetogo said they were satisfied with the attendance. However, some clubs did not participate in the tournament. Those that took part had minimal representation.