Kayamandi Boxing Academy (KBA) may be a small academy, but its vision is as big as it gets. Founded in 2019 by Xolisani Thembani and Mandilakhe Qavane, lifelong boxing enthusiasts, KBA aims to develop youth through sports and education. Their dedication to the sport and their community has brought them recognition and success, as seen in the recent achievements of two female National Champions.
This year KBA proudly produced two female National Champions: Olwethu Mkhathal and Nompumelelo Mthelo. Mkhathal, competing in the 50 kg weight class, emerged as the gold medallist, while Mthelo, fighting at 66 kg, secured the bronze. Mkhathal’s journey began as the 2021 SA bronze medallist and, together with her teammates, they embarked on a path that led them to various tournaments and ultimately the nationals.
The district-level tournament held in Worcester on 15 April this year marked the beginning of their journey. With their impressive performances they advanced to the provincial championships in Hermanus between 29 and 30 April. Mthelo showcased her skills by triumphing over a formidable opponent in the 66 kg weight class. Mkhathal fought two bouts, winning her first on points against a worthy opponent. Unfortunately, in her second bout, she lost a controversial decision to the 2022 South African champion, S Soboois, who has since turned professional.
Their exceptional performances led to their selection for the provincial team, with Mthelo’s coach chosen as the coach of the province. In the semi-finals she fought against Eastern Cape’s representative, A Bayeni, earning a bronze medal. Olwethu faced Free State’s representative, M Kobe, emerging victorious on points and advancing to the finals. In the championship match against Eastern Cape’s O Maci, Mkhathal’s skill and determination secured her the gold medal.
Throughout their journey, KBA has received unwavering support from local businesses Gino’s Stellenbosch and Neil Saul’s Fresh Produce. Their sponsorship has been instrumental in enabling the academy to provide opportunities for aspiring boxers and empower them through the sport.
Coach Xolisani Thembani expressed his gratitude for the outstanding performances delivered by both girls. He commended Mpumi for her exceptional performance despite the challenges of finding opponents in her weight category. Her bronze medal was a testament to her star quality. Mkhathal’s victory was anticipated due to her dedication and training efforts, which further solidified their belief in her triumph.
The victories of Mkhathal and Mthelo serve as a testament to the relentless hard work and meticulous attention to training that KBA embodies.
These successes inspire the entire team and motivate them to dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to future opportunities.
The Cape Winelands Vice-Chairperson, Zolani Msolo, expressed immense pride in the girls’ achievements, acknowledging the challenges they faced and their dedication to balancing school and sports.
He praised their leadership and their role in challenging gender stereotypes in boxing, proving that the sport is not limited to males.
The president of Western Cape, Andrew Phokeng, congratulated KBA for their gold and bronze medals at the National Championships.
He commended the girls’ immaculate performance and their discipline under coach Thembani’s guidance. He expressed pride in their representation of the province and highlighted their potential to become future South African champions.
Mkhathal, the gold medallist, expressed her gratitude to everyone who believed in her and supported her throughout her journey. Despite the challenges she faced, she never wavered in her determination, and being part of KBA provided her with a home, a family, and a supportive coach who saw her potential from the beginning.
Nompumelelo, the bronze medallist, shared her experience of joining the academy with a background in football. She emphasized the benefits of boxing, particularly in self-defence, and encouraged more young females to join the sport. Despite the challenges of finding opponents in her weight division, Nompumelelo remains undeterred, ready to take on any fight that comes her way.
KBA’s achievements and the accomplishments of Olwethu Mkhathal and Nompumelelo Mthelo showcase the power of dedication, hard work, and community support. These young boxers are shining examples of what can be accomplished when passion, talent, and unwavering determination come together. The academy’s commitment to developing youth through sports and education continues to make a lasting impact, inspiring others and paving the way for future champions.
