"Our aim is to revive this indigenous game and become recognised like any other sporting code"

EXCITEMENT was high among supporters at the stick-fighting tournament at the Site C taxi rank in Khayelitsha on Saturday.

The event was organised by the South African Stick Fighting Federation to scout for promising competitors to participate in the provincial tournament that will be held in November at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

"Our aim is to revive this indigenous game and become recognised like any other sporting code in the country," said Vuyisile Dyolotana, the federation's founder. He urged companies to help develop the sport.

Mzawuthethi Nxele, 68, said the tournament reminded him of his childhood.

"I hope young boys will take this seriously. In our days we played sticks for fun, but now people get paid even for running. Instead of youths smoking dagga, it's better to join these stick-fighting clubs."