By TDN
Mahikeng-Boxing enthusiasts and guests at a gala dinner hosted by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) to honour Norman “Pangaman” Sekgapane were taken on a trip down memory lane when speaker after speaker reminisced about the epic battles the legendary boxer fought.
The event was held in Mafikeng over the weekend.
Among the guests were veteran boxing administrator Stanley Sono, Boxing SA’s Dr Peter Ngatane and members of the local boxing fraternity.
During the event, guests were treated to live serenading acapella sounds and awe-inspiring television clips of some of the greatest local boxing bouts, including those that featured “Pangaman”.
In a speech delivered on her behalf by the Acting Head of Department, Ms Faith Mashimbye, MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture Ms Tebogo Modise paid homage to Sekgapane and said the Province was proud to honour him.
“Even to this day, from the corners of Cape Town to East London, Durban and Johannesburg, any boxing enthusiast worth his or her salt knows about the memorable battles that this man fought on the ring,” said Ms Modise.
“Who will forget his epic fights against seasoned warriors such as Anthony “Blue Jaguar” Morodi and Nkosana “Happy Boy” Mgxaji” said Modise.
MEC Modise said Sekgapane is the man who used to pack stadiums with his bouts against Antonio Cervantes, Harold Volbrecht, Bramley Whiteboy, Tsietsi Maretloane, Mzwandile Biyana and many other boxers of the highest calibre in the world.
She added that the boxer would always be remembered for his ring presence.
“The Norman “Pangaman” Sekgapane that we know was (like) a master chess player in the ring. He was always clear about his strategy, often catching his opponents unawares. This is the man who became the darling of the boxing game with his tactics and sheer hard work.” She said.
Commenting about his boxing career with Sekgapane, Dr Ngatane – who was also an amateur contemporary of the boxer – said even during their amateur years, “Pangaman” was always inspirational.
“He was quiet off the ring and did not seem bothered as we all were preparing for our bouts. He approached his craft with dignity and made his statements with his fists.”
Accompanied by members of his family, including his mother, wife, sisters and children, “Pangaman” expressed joy at the recognition.
“Many boxers are recognised when they are no longer living,” he said. “I thank the North West Province for such a great honour.” he said.-TDN
Follow us on Twitter@Taung-DailyNews or @IceT_