“Ten Count” with Golden State Boxers’ Association
A special tribute was held for South Africa’s Nelson Mandela, who passed away on December 5. The former president, philanthropist and hero was also a former boxer and a lifelong fight fan. In honor of this Johannesburg legend, the Golden State Boxers’ Association (GSBA) called together a meeting and “Ten Count” ceremony yesterday in Hollywood.
I took time to take part in this private gathering for this great man who fought back against apartheid and oppression. Joining President Bill Dempsey Young and Vice President Linda Young where some boxing champions, Olympians, actors and boxing veterans including California Boxing Hall of Fame President Don Fraser, WBC Super Featherweight Gabriel Ruelas, Olympic Gold Medalist Paul Gonzales, boxer/actor Abel Fernandez, two-time world champ Bobby “Schoolboy” Chacon, Andy “The Hawk” Price, Armando Muniz, fighting twins Jesus Pimentel and Jose Pimentel, the GSBA’s Ron Sandate, former GSBA President Larry Montalvo, boxing historian Rick Resnick and more.
President Young spoke of the loss of Nelson Mandela, along with quotes of inspiration from the world leader. The GSBA group gathered around a vintage bell that chimed 10 times in honor of Mandela. Bill mentioned the GSBA organization began in the ’60s and continues to meet once a week to pay respect to boxing’s past champs while also supporting the present gladiators of the fight game.
The prizefighters at Tuesday’s affair all said a prayer for Mandela (who is seen in the framed photo as a young pugilist). He is quoted as saying: “Boxing is egalitarian; in the ring, rank, age, colour and wealth are irrelevant.”
Rest in peace, Champion Nelson Mandela.
Photos by Michele Chong
