WINDHOEK – They might not be well known in local boxing development structures but the trio of Titus Kaluwapa, Max Ipinge and Harry Simon Jr, have been bestowed the responsibility of carrying Namibia’s medal hopes at the upcoming Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) Youth Games, to take place in Botswana later this month.
The ANOCA Youth Games will officially start on May 19-24 and all SADC countries are expected to compete. It will be Namibia’s first appearance at the games and the three young pugilists are brimming with confidence and promised to bring medals back home.
Simon Jnr, son of Namibia’s legendary boxer Harry Simon, said he was well prepared for the games and was humbled by the opportunity to be among the country’s first youngsters to represent Namibia at the games. The 16-year-old Simon, who will be fighting in the bantamweight division, promised to represent Namibia with pride and dignity, with the ultimate aim of bringing home a gold medal.
An upbeat Ipinge (18), fighting in the welterweight division, also stood his ground and said scooping a gold medal was highly possible as he was satisfied with his preparations and overall fitness.
Also18 years of age, Kaluwapa heaped praise on the team selectors for giving them an opportunity to shine and represent Namibia continentally, saying they would surely give a good account of themselves and hopefully return home with a medal each.
By Otniel Hembapu