adminThe Herald, December 9, 1980
ZIMBABWE’s new Commonwealth lightweight boxing champion, Langton “Schoolboy” Tinago flew into Salisbury last night looking slightly the worse for wear, but with a beam from ear-to-ear.
He had every reason to be happy. He had just stopped Nigeria’s tough Hogan Jimoh to win the first Commonwealth boxing title for his country.
Despite a hurried flight to Lagos after a last-minute arrangement the rangy Zimbabwean shocked the boxing world with his decisive win.
A confident Tinago promised he would return with the title – a boast even his most loyal supporters took with trepidation.
However, he’s back and he’s also the champion.
“My manager, Dave Wellings, and I are going to throw a big celebration party,” he said last night.
It was against almost overwhelming odds that Schoolboy won his greatest triumph. The fight was arranged at the last with the Zimbabweans snapping up the chance with a fortnight to prepare.
Then a power failure in Nigeria threatened the bout, which was scheduled for Sunday afternoon.
“Because of this we booked a midnight flight,” said manager Wellings. Then came the bombshell that the flight would start at 10 pm, just two hours before take-off.
Schoolboy did not let his manager down. He stopped the tough Nigerian after seven rounds, rushed off to the airport, still in his flight strip with hands bandaged and blood streaming from a cut to catch the plane to Johannesburg, which had been held up for him.
“I just knew I would win the title I had that feeling. I had to win for my country and fans,” said Schoolboy last night.
“If Jimoh wants a return match he can have it. I will beat him again.”
Lessons for today
Self-belief is crucial in achieving success. Langton “Schoolboy” Tinago believed in his abilities to the extent that he was confident of winning even when his most loyal supporters were doubting his chances of success.
When competing or participating in an event or match it is important to have some motivation to spur you on. Tinago’s motivation for winning was the need to make his manager, fans and country proud.
When offered an opportunity grab it with both hands and make the most of it. Tinago was offered a chance to fight at short notice and he grabbed it and although he had little time to prepare he made the most of the time he had and prevailed at the end of the day.
Online Reporter