The City of Cape Town’s Recreation and Parks Department handed over boxing equipment to the Dunoon Recreation Hub this weekend which will give many more aspiring athletes access to the sport. The handover is part of the City’s commitment to unlocking new opportunities for young people who attend its recreation hubs.
The City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security; and Social Services handed over boxing equipment to the Dunoon Recreation Hub on Saturday 16 September 2017 during a tournament.
‘The Recreation and Parks Department is committed to ensuring that as many young people as possible have access to a variety of sporting codes and opportunities. The local boxing club will also be able to use the new equipment,’ said Alderman Smith.
‘I asked for the equipment to be sourced after visiting them during a tournament some months ago. At the time I marvelled at the enthusiasm and passion of the young boxers. I was also upset because of their lack of equipment, broken gloves and the fact that they had to share equipment transporting it from one match to the other. They deserve the best possible equipment and opportunities to be the next South African champions,’ added Alderman Smith.
The Dunoon Recreation Hub has partnered with the Inkwenkwezi Boxing Club since 2012 and this partnership has contributed significantly to the development of boxing in the Dunoon community. Currently there are 17 youths aged between 11 and 25 who are members of the boxing club.
‘Boxing is not only a good way to work off stress, but it also provides a good full-body workout. Boxing improves hand-eye coordination, body strength, and is good for cardiovascular health and burning calories,’ said Alderman Smith.
The R52 000 worth of equipment includes boxing gloves, punching bags, speed balls, head-gear, skipping ropes, digital body weight scales, and training targets.
The equipment will assist in further developing the sport of boxing in the Dunoon community and keeping the youth of Dunoon engaged in healthy activities.
‘The value of participating in sport cannot be underestimated. Work ethic, dedication, respect and team work are just some of the social values that are cultivated. Sport also reinforces a self-esteem and a positive attitude. The City is committed to providing opportunities for all residents, in line with our Organisational Development and Transformation Plan, and this is just one way of giving our young people the skills they need,’ said Alderman Smith.