A pair of South Canterbury-based boxing teams have made powerful statements at the 2025 South Island Novice Championships.
Hosted by the Woolston Boxing Club in Christchurch, the two-day tournament was one of the most anticipated events on the boxing calendar and this year featured a total of 96 bouts.
Taafaki Boxing from Waimate entered 10 fighters in the tournament and walked away with six gold medals, two silvers and a bronze.
Timaru Boxing Association entered five fighters and in an equally impressive display ended the tournament with three gold medals, two silvers and a bronze.
Fighting under the Taafaki banner was debutant Aziah Lane (52kg cadet) who picked up a hard-fought bronze in his firstever bout, and Haifa Taafaki (74kg cadet) who won gold in his division with just three months of training.
Kiasah Lamont (under 70kg junior) cemented his spot as a serious contender with a silver medal, and Francis Taafaki (youth female) claimed gold despite battling illness showing off her mental and physical toughness.
Pisi Tavai (95kg junior) showed natural athleticism to walk away with gold despite being a newcomer to sport and Chrysler Nash Lofranco (63.5kg youth) demonstrated expert composure and control to claim a silver.
Unfortunately for the team, scheduled debuts for Tarona Taafaki (elite female) and Elleanna Taafaki (mini female cadet) did not proceed due to a lack of opponents, awarding them both gold.
Taafaki Taafaki (male cadet) went unopposed and was awarded gold in his weight division and Maiau Apelu (elite male) had to withdraw due to last-minute injuries.
Coach Badi Taafaki said he was very impressed by each of his boxers who stepped into the ring.
‘‘[They] pushed their bodies to the limit, endured the mental grind, and demonstrated the dedication that defines Taafaki Boxing.
‘‘The presence of supporters from Oamaru and Waimate played a crucial role in fuelling the team’s energy throughout the weekend.
‘‘The encouragement and unwavering belief in the fighters was felt in every round.’’
He said special appreciation went to the club’s managers, coaches, videographer and support staff, including Francis and Pasoni, who ensured the athletes were well prepared and fuelled.
‘‘With this outstanding performance, Taafaki Boxing continues to build momentum for the future.
‘‘The focus now shifts back to training, with an unwavering commitment to further development and success in the sport,’’ Badi Taafaki said.
On the Timaru Boxing side debutant Parker Hanifin (52kg cadet) fought twice, winning his semifinal via stoppage then overcoming a gritty opponent to claim gold via unanimous decision.
Desmond Dickinson (71kg elite) bounced back after a hard debut last year to claim silver and Shannon Drake (75kg elite) picked up a bronze medal after losing an unfortunate split decision.
Cameron Clarke (71kg junior) advanced to a straight final and overcame a tough test to win gold and William Crooks (60kg junior) put on a highly impressive display to earn himself a gold.
Timaru Boxing coach Hannah Guthrie said the Timaru boxers exceeded all expectations.
‘‘Especially Des, he was stopped last year in his first fight and overcame a lot of battles to get into the ring.
‘‘The fact he won his semi and made the final was massive.
‘‘He really stepped up and surprised everyone, it was awesome.’’
She said their fight team was continuing to grow and improve.
‘‘We’re working hard and the gym is getting good numbers as well. We have at least 20 at training most nights now and would have more if everyone was there at the same time.
‘‘We’re actually starting a kids’ class now because we need to split them up because of numbers in the gym.’’
Both Timaru and Taafaki boxing will now be focusing on the upcoming Gore tournament on Saturday.
