MTC-Kilimanjaro ‘Young Shall Grow’ Amateur Championships goes to schoolgrounds

Maria David

IN response to the growing talented boxers in northern Namibia, MTC-Kilimanjaro Boxing Club will be hosting their fourth “Young Shall Grow” Amateur Championships.

The boxing bonanza is slated for the 18th of March at Iipumbu Secondary School in Oshakati in the Oshana Region. This is done with a purpose of reclaiming its old boxing glorious history of the 80’s and 90’s.

Chairperson of the Club, Joseph Bernhard, said that the upcoming championship is very important on the club’s calendar as it aims to take the boxing games to the learners.

Bernhard explained the “Young Shall Grow” Boxing Bonanza is done to scout talent in the northern area with the hope of having international champions.

He indicated that taking the championship to the school will also form part of introducing the boxing sport to the learners who desire to be in the ring.

“The school has many learners that wants to be trained outside the school fence, which is a challenge to many, thus the school principal, Bobby Kamutukwata, agreed to have the tournament hosted at the schoolground,” he said.

He added that there are about 30 bouts expected on the day, which includes learners and boxing clubs around the northern part of the country.

With regards to budget, Bernhard said that hosting a boxing tournament is costly, and the budget will depend on the whole organisation of the tournament, starting from a space, ring, and other logistics.

Oshana Governor Elia Irimari also concurred with Bernhard, adding that his office is ready to assist where they can with making this tournament a success.

Irimari said that the purpose is not only to identify and develop boxing talent, but also to further support career development for good boxers.

He stressed that they owe it to the youth to ensure that young people achieve the highest expression of their dreams.