The former Cuban national boxing champion traveled across the ocean to develop his talent in northwest China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.
Written by Sports Writer Sun Zhe
URUMQI, March 26 (Xinhua) – In a boxing ring at the foot of the majestic Tianshan Mountains, Dagoberto Capote moved deftly and delivered quick punches to his disciples in Xinjiang.
Despite his age of 56, the Cuban coach radiated boundless passion and exuded the energy of a young boxer stepping into the ring for the first time.
Capote continued to encourage his team to excel in all aspects of training, gesturing enthusiastically and mixing Chinese phrases such as “jiayou” (good luck) and “champion” with Spanish. Under his infectious spirit, the intensity of training increased and a frenetic atmosphere developed.
“Passion runs in the blood of all Cubans, it's innate in us,” he said proudly. “A good coach not only has the specialized knowledge, but also knows how to keep the boxer passionate and positive throughout training.”
During his boxing career, Capote was a notable athlete and national champion. After his retirement, his love for the sport led him to become a coach, sharing his knowledge in Cuba, Venezuela, and now in Xinjiang, China.
Last June, after receiving numerous recommendations, Capote and his compatriot Luisbey Sanchez crossed the ocean to become the head of the senior and youth divisions of the Xinjiang boxing team.
The region is the traditional home of boxing, with young Kazakhs, Uighurs and other ethnic groups actively participating. Over the years, Xinjiang has produced many outstanding athletes, including Mehmet Tursun Chung and Totalbek Tangratan, who have achieved remarkable results in various international competitions.
Upon arriving in Xinjiang, Capote admitted he felt a great responsibility given the region's illustrious boxing history. He integrated new training philosophies and methods while strengthening the athletes' weaknesses.
“Our boxers have good physical characteristics, but I focus on improving their skills to make them more well-rounded,” he explained.
After each training session, Capote meticulously rewards his players with sweets, aiming to continually boost their confidence and motivation.
His dedication quickly paid off, with Xinjiang showing impressive signs of progress, winning three golds, one silver and one bronze at the national championship last December.
Being thousands of miles away from his loved ones, Capote occasionally suffers from homesickness.
However, he adapted to life in Xinjiang. As he endures cold winters and tastes cuisine vastly different from his homeland, Capote sees these experiences as unique chapters in his life. While traveling throughout China, he constantly took photos and shared his experiences with his family.
The coaching staff and players became his trusted “Chinese family.” After nearly a year of close contact, he regarded his disciples as his own sons.
One night, when Capote contracted acute gastroenteritis, his disciples anxiously rushed to his master's aid and provided him with food.
Boxer Alikut Cajal said: “My coach was passionate about both training and life. I am grateful for his help towards me.”
“Although loneliness is inevitable, I came to Xinjiang with a goal,” Capote said. “Everyone has faith in me, so I must do my best to help Xinjiang Boxing achieve better results.”
In recent years, Cuban coaches like Capote have found ample opportunity for growth in China. In addition to the national team, the provincial boxing teams of Henan, Shandong, and Anhui provinces have also invited Cuban coaches.
Capote often met old friends at various competitions. Emotions run high during meetings, but once the fighters step into the ring, everyone takes a serious stance.
“When we enter the boxing ring, we are enemies. But when we step outside the boxing ring, we are friends again,” Capote said.
“We hope that our presence will elevate Chinese boxing to the top level in the world,” he said, expressing his belief that China is rapidly progressing in the sport. “If possible, I would like to stay in Xinjiang and continue teaching indefinitely.” ■
