South Africa's indoor tug-of-war team celebrated in Cape Town ahead of World Championships

The South African indoor tug-of-war athletes were honoured with a capping ceremony in Gardens on Saturday, February 21. 

A coach, an assistant coach, and two teams, an 11-woman and a 12-man, for indoor tug-of-war were announced and enthused by South African Tug-of-War Federation president Luther Anton Botha.

He said after more than a decade without an indoor national presence, the federation has established a development-focused national team that reflects a renewed commitment to talent development, inclusion, and excellence in representation.

"This sport is not just about pulling a rope. It's about building people, and that is what's so great about the sport, all those basic values," he said.

"This dedicated group of athletes is preparing to represent South Africa at the World Indoor Tug-of-War Championships in Taipei, Taiwan, in March 2026," he said. 

Mr Botha said the ceremony marked a significant milestone, signifying the nation's return to the global stage after more than a decade's absence.

Tug-of-war in South Africa dates back to the 1880s. The sport was introduced by the British and formally played by railway and police teams by the late 19th century.

"It holds a significant, often overlooked, place in local sporting history, with South Africa competing in the 1904 Olympic Games," said Mr Botha.

Athlete Yolanda Tsele, from Rondebosch, was excited about participating in international competitions. 

"Being part of the national team, standing in unity with all of the people of South Africa. We are so diverse. We are so rich in culture, and I think the team is a representation of that," she said. 

Athlete Zinziswa Zikishe, from Kenilworth, said she was never a sports person. 

"I was never good with a ball. To be a person in sport was never in my dreams. Then tug-of-war came along. I'm starting to see myself not just as an athlete but as a national athlete," she said.

Ms Zikishe said it was totally amazing to show that there is another sport where people can achieve.

Athlete Somila Camagu, from Langa, would like to help the team and country prosper through her efforts and contributions to the sport.

Athlete Ndzalma Mhangwana, from Limpopo, said to him, being part of the team means being disciplined.

"To do the work consistently, every day, even when it is hard and when no one is looking. 

"To be part of the team means to have unity. To be one with the team - one when you're pulling the rope. I am not doing it for myself, but to have character. To be able to represent the country with respect, humility and pride on and off the rope," he said. 

Mr Mhangwana said he has learned that a chain is not defined by its strongest link but it is tested by its most fragile.

"I think that always reminds me that we have to ride together or not at all," he said. 

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