OCTOBER 29TH 2021
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has encouraged young Papua New Guinea sports people to follow in the steps of the late professional boxer Martin Beni.
He said this today after learning of the passing of Beni, 70, who passed away suddenly in Port Moresby on Wednesday night.
“I am saddened and pass on my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and fans of the late great Martin Beni on his passing,” PM Marape said.
“He was one of those young Papua New Guineans who put PNG on the world map in the period leading up to Independence in 1975.
“In fact, exactly 12 months before we gained Independence from Australia, Martin Beni put PNG on the world map by beating an Australian champion.
“Legend has it that on September 26, 1974, the House of Assembly in Port Moresby rose early.
“Chief Minister Michael Somare drove the short distance to Port Moresby’s Sir Hubert Murray Stadium to see our boxing hero contest an international bout against Australian lightweight champion Colin Cassidy
“‘The Chief’ had a ringside seat and followed each blow as Beni eventually knocked out Cassidy and was on his way to a Commonwealth ranking in professional boxing.
“Beni created a tremendous sense of pride and nationalism in the 12 months leading up to Independence.”
PM Marape said even if PNG did not have the sporting facilities in those days, Beni overcame these to become a champion boxer rated internationally, who put his beloved country on the world map.
“The late Martin Beni showed that where there is a will, there is a way, and I urge all our young sports people to strive to reach those lofty heights that he reached,” he said.
“May the memories of this great Papua New Guinean continue to inspire us, not only in sports, but in everything we do.
“Rest in Peace, champion.”
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