18 Apr 2021

National boxing team assistant coach, Choga Ntoki says Rajab Mohammad and Keamogetswe Kenosi, who have qualified for Tokyo 2020 Olympics expected in July, are ready but could do with test matches.

Speaking in a recent interview, Ntoki said preparations were ongoing and that the duo showed progress in their fitness levels, but that the biggest setback was lack of test matches due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Ntoki said for boxers to qualify they should have participated in regional and international games to improve their ratings, but that COVID-19 had affected such.

Since Kenosi would be making her maiden appearance at the Olympics, Ntoki said they were working hard to improve her technique, adding that the fact that she was without a sparring partner in camp presented a challenge.

He said despite the lack of test matches, both boxers were committed to maintaining their fitness.

He, however, acknowledged that matches were a major tool in gauging the readiness of boxers and whether their tactics and technics could match the Olympic requirements.

He said following a test match a coach could make submissions to the boxer on areas to work on.

While in camp, Ntoki said Mohammad and Kenosi were assisted by the development team that was supposed to participate in a development tournament in France. He said he was grateful that their presence also lifted Mohammad and Kenosi’s morale.

He said the Botswana National Olympic Committee continued to work tirelessly to secure invitation matches for the two boxers with the aim to improve their fitness level.
He also appreciated support from government. ENDS