Mixed start for Bombers in Dakar

The inaugural day for the Boxing qualifiers for the 2024 Olympics in Paris, brought a mix of hope and disappointment at the Dakar Arena in Diamniadio in the heart of Dakar, Senegal.

Isaac Zebra Ssenyange Junior, charted a smooth course to the next round, the fortunes of Grace Nankinga and Jonathan Kyobe took a somber turn with losses in their respective bouts.

Ssenyange's journey to the next round proved surprisingly effortless, as his opponent from South Sudan failed to make an appearance, granting him a walkover.

In the women's 50 Kg category, Nankinga faced a formidable opponent in Tanzanian boxer Yusufu Zulfa Macho.

The bout saw Macho secure a unanimous victory, with all five judges ruling in her favor with scores of 29-28, 30-27, 30-27, 29-28, and 29-28.

The bout was officiated by referee Shawn Kale Reese from the United States of America (USA).

Macho's next challenge will be Nigerian boxer Adeola Oysiji Omowunmi, who advanced to the next round with a bye.

In the 57 Kg category, Jonathan Kyobe had a tough battle against Mozambique's Rogoberto Armando Sigauque, ultimately leading to Kyobe's defeat.

The Ugandan boxing contingent in Dakar also includes Joshua Tukamuhebwa (63.5 Kg), Musa Shadir Bwogi (80 Kg), and Shafik Fathia Mawanda (51 Kg).

Guiding the team are three coaches: Lawrence Kalyango, Hassan Khalil Mukungu, and Mercy Mukankusi.

The event features 235 athletes from 42 countries, all vying for the coveted 18 quota places for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Of these, eleven slots are designated for women, and seven for men, making every bout a crucial step towards Olympic qualification.