The Overstrand is producing world-class boxing talent – and the Overstrand Whale Boxing Club (OWBC) has just delivered one of its most outstanding weeks. Three athletes made their mark at the South African Youth and Elite National Boxing Championships (SANABO) National Championships.
The 2026 SANABO National Boxing Championships were held from 8 July 8 to 11 July in Kuils River.
Leading the charge was Sihle Mjongile, who delivered a superb performance to win gold in the Elite 51 kg division – and was then named Best Elite Male Boxer of the Championships, one of the highest individual honours of the event. It is a result that puts Hermanus firmly on the national boxing map and marks Mjongile as one of the country’s most exciting young fighters.
With this remarkable achievement, Mjongile also secured his place in the Commonwealth Games team. The 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, are taking place from 23 July to 2 August.
The 11-day event will feature 10 sports and six Para sports held across four iconic venues in the city, including the Scottish Event Campus (SEC) and the OVO Hydro.
Mjongile is very excited about the opportunity and says he believes he will make South Africa and Hermanus proud.
Okuhle Gqadushe also performed strongly, winning silver in her Elite division, while Kolunga Ndleleni competed well in the Youth division, winning his opening fight and contributing to the club’s solid team showing
Boxing is love
The successes are a testament to the dedication of Head Coach Mzi Damesi and the club’s long-term commitment to developing talented boxers from Zwelihle and the broader Overstrand.OWBC is also entering an exciting new chapter off the canvas, with the formation of a new governing board aimed at strengthening governance, partnerships and opportunities for its athletes.
Through a partnership with international boxing apparel brand BOXRAW and its “Boxing is Love” community programmes, the club has already received valuable kit support for its boxers — building strategic partnerships that create greater opportunities for athletes from Zwelihle and the Overstrand.These achievements show what is possible through committed coaching, athlete determination, strong community roots and meaningful partnerships.
The success of Sihle, Okuhle, Kolunga and the rest of the team is proof that talent from Zwelihle can reach the highest levels of the sport.For the young people of Hermanus and the Overstrand, the message is clear: the ring is open, the talent is real, and the world is watching.
