Boxer Athletics Club is making significant strides in developing athletes across various regions, with a strong emphasis on empowering young talent from diverse backgrounds.
The club’s commitment to grassroots development is evident in the success of groups across several provinces in South Africa.
According to Boxer AC manager Rhyn Swanepoel, Vosloorus Mario Training operating under the BAC Development banner has been a beacon of athletic opportunity for five years.
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“This group has successfully guided various athletes from their early stages to senior-level competition. Their dedication spans all age categories, from under five to under 23, showcasing their commitment to long-term athlete development.
“A highlight for the BAC Development team in Vosloorus was four of their developing athletes making history by representing Gauteng at the SA U23 Championships in Cape Town in March this year.
“The team’s focus extends beyond competition, with a clear emphasis on celebrating the young athletes, affectionately known as ‘Our Stars’.”
BAC Border
In the Eastern Cape, Swanepoel said, BAC Border is making waves under the guidance of the Boxer AC coordinator for Border, Simon Ngxeke.
“Ngxeke’s extensive experience in athletics, from his early days with Oxford Striders to his current role as a top referee, has been instrumental in the club’s growth. Since joining BAC in late 2023, Ngxeke has focused on building the club by actively recruiting at School Athletics events.
“This effort yielded impressive results, with two junior females achieving provincial colours in cross-country and four male juniors securing podium finishes in 2024.
“BAC has provided a crucial platform for these athletes, many of whom had never participated in formal races before, earning gratitude from parents and the community.”
Swanepoel said despite challenges, such as the fact that 90% of BAC Border’s athletes hail from rural areas and require accommodation before races, the club has consistently achieved podium finishes across junior, senior (35+, 40+, 50+, and 60+), and social running categories.
“BAC Border’s success stories include athletes like Image Norayase, who dominated the female junior 10km races, and Uviwe Simon, recognised for consistent performance and recent race wins.
Emmah Nqakulela is another shining star, balancing academic excellence with impressive results in 5km, 800m, and 1 500m events. Liyema Piyose demonstrated competitive prowess against top juniors, while Liyema Lunyawo and Siyolise Nqam are recognised as promising male juniors. The 12-years-old twins, Naba and Nabo Mente, also received their Border Colours for cross country.“
Legacy
Swanepoel said Boxer Athletics Club takes immense pride in its development teams and their achievements.
“The Boxer AC junior team is one of the Boxer AC’s proudest achievements. To have so many children from disadvantaged areas in the Boxer AC kit, and to give youngsters a chance to prove themselves and shine, is magic. We cannot wait to see what the future holds.
“The Boxer AC Development Division boasts a substantial registration of athletes between 50 and 65.”
He added the number of athletes achieving national medals represents a portion of the club’s overall junior participation.
“At the SA Junior Championship, Boxer AC had a strong contingent of 16 junior athletes from previously disadvantaged backgrounds (10 boys and 6 girls), showcasing the depth of talent in the club.”
Swanepoel highlighted the achievements of the two juniors who won the Boxer Super Run 1km dash in Tshwane in November 2024 – 12-year-old Carlos Makheseng and 11-year-old Anzel Homan from Meyerton.
“Watch out for these two; they have a stellar future ahead,” added Swanepoel.
Boxer AC’s dedication to development extends across multiple regions through various groups and includes:
• Phalula Development – Soweto/Diepkloof/Orange Farm
• Ruimsig – Johannesburg
• Coach Thulani Sebeko- Boksburg
• Coach Mario Training – Benoni/Vosloorus
• Simon Border – East London Rural and Greater Eastern Cape Rural
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