The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) boxer Keleto Takele won the gold medal after beating fellow RFMF comrade Rusiate Qalo on points in the 57–60kg division of the Vodafone Ratu Sukuna Bowl boxing final at Suva’s LICI Court.

However, it was Police who took out the boxing competition last night.

“I thank God for the win, and we didn’t have an easy preparation for this competition,” Takele said.

“I’m glad that I pushed through the challenges in our one-month camp with a determined spirit.” Takele had described the Ratu Sukuna Bowl competition as a prestigious sporting event between RFMF and the Fiji Police Force.

“We didn’t eat properly especially the boxers in the light weights and we endured the early morning runs especially the intense training,” he said.

“I dedicate this win to my dad and family members that came to watch me and also the army officers at camp.”

Takele said spiritual preparation had motivated him to be resilient when training got tough. “It’s the first year for me to take up boxing and it’s the seventh boxing match that I’ve participated in since joining the Army Boxing Club,” he said.

“I usually live in my village at Navunikabi, Namosi, but my brother is a trainer and boxer as well and he brought me to join the army.”

“The public often think that people who take up boxing are arrogant, but this sport is about discipline, focus, humility and determination.”

Takele has urged youths to take up boxing for self-defence and to keep up with their fitness.

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