Former world champion Dorcus Inzikuru made a surprise visit to Biggie Boxing Club in Kyebando on Monday June 23, where she threw her weight behind budding boxer Ambayo Patrick ahead of his Uganda Boxing Champions League showdown with Lukanga’s Manirola Farahat.
Inzikuru, once the queen of the steeplechase mingled with the young boxers, encouraging them to stay focused and disciplined as they chase their dreams.
Her presence in one of Kawempe Division’s busiest neighborhoods sparked energy among the athletes, especially Ambayo, who is gearing up for Week Five of Season Four of the Champions League.
“We need to encourage these children to put in more effort during training,” said Inzikuru. “Coaches and parents should give them a chance — because they truly have the talent.”
She emphasized that giving young athletes confidence is the spark that often ignites greater possibilities.
“When we give these kids the courage, they start to believe in themselves. That’s when the world begins to notice them — and that’s how we attract sponsors.”
Inzikuru praised the steady rise of boxing in Uganda and urged for greater support from government and sports leaders.
“I’m very happy to see how sports, especially boxing, is coming up in Uganda. These young athletes are doing well and it’s exciting to watch,” she said. “The government should come out and support these boxers. Increase their budget so they can showcase their talent globally.”
She also called for renewed attention to neglected disciplines.
“Even the sports that have been sidelined — we need to bring them back. These children have talent, and they need our help to develop it.”
Asked to give her thoughts on the State of Ugandan Sport, Inzikuru said grassroots development is still the key to unlocking Uganda’s athletic potential.
“There’s still so much untapped talent at the grassroots. We need to identify it, support it, and develop it. That’s how we’ll discover the best,” she noted.
For Ambayo, the visit from one of Uganda’s most celebrated athletes couldn’t have come at a better moment.
“Dorcus Inzikuru is one of the athletes who made us love sports,” he said. “Back then, we weren’t into sports, but seeing her make it internationally inspired us. That’s how many of us decided to join boxing.”
Ambayo will step into the ring this Saturday at the NCS Arena, Lugogo, in a bout that will be broadcast live on NBS Sport.
