Huge interest in show’s musangwe fights

Phindulo Ndou (left) and Nkhumbuleni Nemadialaga in action.

Huge interest in show’s musangwe fights

Thousands of people turned up at the Mabirimisa Bus service stage at the Makhado show on Saturday to watch the musangwe tournament. The event was officially opened by King Toni Mphephu Ramabulana, who also celebrated his birthday on Saturday.

King Toni said that the royal council was committed to preserving the Venda culture and they felt bound to support the tournament as musangwe formed part of the Venda culture. He praised the organisers for bringing back the forgotten cultural sport.

The organiser, Mr Patrick Ramarada, praised the management of Mabirimisa bus company for their decision to sponsor the tournament, despite the economic hardships that are facing the business community in the area. He said it was important that future stars' talent be identified.

Mr Robert Mabirimisa of Mabirimisa Bus Service said that it was the policy of his company to plough back into the community. He said that sponsorships played a vital role in sports development.

One of the fighters, Steven Nditwani, said it was the sport that he enjoyed most. "Some say it is a primitive game, but I don’t agree, because it is like other games. It is meant to promote friendship, because we bear no grudges after the fight, even if one is defeated. This is the game of our forefathers and we will never stop following in their footsteps."

Steven Nditwani showed his supporters that he was not roaring for nothing, when he convincingly beat his opponent, Timer Munyai. In another match, Meshack Masikwa lost to Thanyani Sithavhandou. In the fight between Khetho Ndou and Khodani Nephalama, Khetho was declared the winner. The most entertaining fight was between Shane Ramarada and Mulalao Tshifura. Shane was declared the winner.

Thanyani Sithavhathavha (left) takes a swing at Khodani Nephalama.

Date:08 August 2014

By: Kaizer Nengovhela

Kaizer Nengovhela started writing stories for Limpopo Mirror in 2000. Prior to that he had a five year stint at Phala-Phala FM as sports presenter. In 2005 Kaizer received an award from the province's premier as Best Sports Presenter. The same year he was also nominated as Best Sports Reporter by the Makhado Municipality. Kaizer was awarded the Mathatha Tsedu award in 2014.

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