Veterans take a walk down memory lane
East Rand Veterans Boxing Association (ERVBA) members reminisced about the good old days at their annual Champions’ Night.
The Primrose Bowling Club was filled with laughter and merriment on Thursday evening as members of the East Rand Veterans Boxing Association (ERVBA) came together for the club’s annual Champions’ Night.
Champions’ Night offers those in attendance not only a chance to remember, but also honour and recognise our homegrown champions
Former heavyweight boxing champion Jimmy Abbott and Jeff Ellis, who is dubbed one of the best small-hall promoters, joined in the evening’s festivities as guest speakers and shared their experiences.
Abbott, now an evangelist minister, shared some of the highlights of his career with the members, recounting how, at one stage in the 1980s, he was South Africa’s youngest heavyweight boxing champion.
During his career he also received his Springbok colours and was ranked ninth in the world at his peak.
A few of his career wins include Leroy Boone, in 1982; Henry Porter, in 1980; Tommy Kiely, 1978; and Jeff Ellis, the second guest speaker of the evening.
Ellis, who is described as a true gentleman with a heart as big as a mountain, is known for his promotion skills.
Though his ability as a promoter is widely recognised and his advice is sought by many in the boxing world, he has also been a boxer, trainer, manager and local and international board representative.
Ellis recently returned from a trip to Russia and shared his experience with the ERVBA members.
After the speakers had finished, guests and members mingled and socialised.
The club meets every month and, like the Champions’ Night, the meetings often include guest speakers.
But the association does not only give retired boxers a chance to reminisce; it also helps former boxers who need financial and psychological assistance.
“A lot of guys need our help out there.
“However, our work requires funding and we try to raise funds wherever we can,” said chairman Nigel Pera.
For more information, or to join the association, visit the website at www.ervba.co.za
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