TITLE: Boxing in Cuba, A Way of Life

Boxing is so much a part of Cuban culture that street scenes like this aren’t uncommon. The kids in the neighbourhood, coached by the more experienced older boys or men, fight in the streets. The entire neighbourhood comes out to cheer them on. Those who can, join gyms. These gyms aren’t the kind we are accustomed to in our privileged living. They are run down, paint peeling, ill-equipped, their boxing gloves tattered and frayed but they play an important social role in the lives of these young boys, some as young as six. As the coach of one of these gyms said “It’s an important outlet that provides disciple and purpose in a safe environment for these boys. Most come from poor backgrounds and a place like this keeps them safe from bad influences.”

It is no wonder too that Cuba has found fame in the world boxing stage at the Olympics. Boxing is in the Cuban lifeblood. Who knows, one of these young boys may one day carry the gold for Cuba.

AUTHOR: Shobha Gopinath (Singapore)