More than 200 boxing enthusiasts packed the Grootfontein Soccer Stadium over the weekend to witness an exciting boxing tournament hosted by Morning Star Boxing Academy.
The event was officially opened by Grootfontein mayor Moritz Gaingob, who praised the role of sport in youth development and community building. The tournament attracted talented boxers from various clubs and delivered thrilling action throughout the day.
Morning Star Boxing Academy’s Junior Shikondhi was crowned the tournament’s Best Youth Boxer after producing an outstanding display of endurance and aggression. Shikondhi impressed spectators and judges alike with three rounds of non-stop punching, dominating his bout from start to finish.
The Best Junior Boxer award went to Olivia Ambrosius of Okahandja, who pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the tournament by defeating national champion Elizabeth Musmani, also from Okahandja. Ambrosius displayed exceptional skill, determination, and ring intelligence to secure the memorable victory.
In the senior division, Morning Star’s Petrus Ndeity was named Best Senior Boxer following a powerful performance against Hamupolo Haggai from Okahandja. Ndeity overwhelmed his opponent with a series of heavy punches that earned him a convincing victory and the admiration of the crowd.
Several boxers delivered standout performances during the tournament. Local favourite Katemo Thomas of Morning Star Boxing Academy showcased world-class footwork in his bout against Sunday Ndumba of Real Camouflage, earning praise from boxing fans and officials.
Another highlight came from national champion Johannes Ndeitya, who stunned spectators by stopping Markus Kakururu of Real Camouflage within just 10 seconds of the opening bell, recording the fastest victory of the tournament.
Morning Star boxers Alfeus Simao and Festus Leonard also enjoyed successful outings, both recording impressive victories and contributing to the host club’s strong overall performance.
Speaking after the tournament, Morning Star Boxing Academy coach and sponsor Tim Wolstenholme credited the club’s training programme for the impressive results.
“We have been working on hand and foot speed in the gym, and it showed in the ring,” said Wolstenholme. “The boxers executed what they have been practising in training, and all the coaches are proud of their performances.”
Tournament organisers, chairman Johannes Shilimedimo and Wolstenholme expressed their gratitude to the supporters, boxers, officials, coaches, and sponsors OK foods and Carbo Namibia who all contributed to the event’s success. It was great to have The Namibia Professional Boxing and Wrestling Control Board (NPBWCB) present who aided in the smooth running of the tournament. With a crowd of more than 200 supporters and a high standard of boxing on display, the tournament was widely regarded as a major success and a positive boost for the sport in Grootfontein and the surrounding region.
The event once again demonstrated the growing strength of amateur boxing in Namibia and highlighted the promising talent emerging from Morning Star Boxing Academy and other participating clubs.
