Jeff Ellis, a resident from Mayfield Park, was born on February 29, in the leap year of 1952.
Growing up in Mayfair in Johannesburg, Jeff and all the other local leap year babies were invited to celebrate their birthdays at a local convenience store.
There, they were treated with delicious snacks, cake and gifts. He also received more attention because, as he puts it, he was born “oddly”, meaning that he only gets to celebrate his birthday every four years, on the actual date.
Jeff normally celebrates his birthday on February 28, unless when it is a leap year, which makes it very special.
The value of family
Jeff and his wife, Marie, have been together since they were 12 years old and will celebrate their 48th wedding anniversary in March.
Altogether, they have been together for 55 years. They have three sons, five grandchildren and two great- grandchildren.
Family lies close to Jeff’s heart. “The biggest highlight of everyday in my life is waking up next to Marie,” he said.
“I taught my sons that their mother is their life, if you respect her, you will respect all of life,” he added.
When asked how he will be celebrating his birthday, he replied, “With all the members of my family close to my side. “They are indeed my biggest gift.”
African Ring
African Ring is owned and run by Jeff and is dedicated to covering all the latest events and news in the world of South African boxing.
Through years of commitment, passion and participation in the sometimes brutal, yet gratifying sport, Jeff has acquired a formidable background within South African boxing.
He has participated at all levels of the sport, as a trainer, boxer, publisher, promoter, matchmaker, official and international fight commissioner.
His wealth of experience has certainly complimented the formation of African Ring.
Developing fighters is what intrigues Jeff most.
He truly has a passion for boxing and even though he has retired from the sport, he still teaches youngsters.
He was a professional boxer in his younger years and boxed with the likes of Kallie Knoetze and Jimmy Abbott.
Jeff also served on all the world bodies. He recently received a lifetime achievement award for unbroken service to boxing for the past 50 years.
