The latest
Thursday Oct 18, 2018
View from the Corner at NYC Media Day
The brave 2018 New York City boxers have reached the midpoint of training. This month, the fighters met at Church Street Boxing Club in Tribecca for a day of sparring and a complete media workout. While the boxers shadowboxed and flexed for the cameras, we caught up with the masterminds behind their training plans: the coaches. Here’s a look at the trainers’ mindsets as Fight Night approaches.Fighter Chloe Ferguson and coach Danny Danny on Chloe: She’s my number one worker. She comes in every day and goes right to it. She’s very competitive. There are some things she demonstrated today that prove I have something I can work with. We’re going to keep doing what we’re doing and persevering forward.Fighter Luke Frankson and coach Jose Jose on Luke: That was exactly what I wanted from him. He’s tall and ranging, I wanted him to work the jab and that was exactly what he did.Fighter Gabrielle Cramer and coach Jose Jose on Gabrielle: It was intense in there during sparring. But she comes to the gym every single day, so we have no problem. We’re going to keep working.Fighter Bobby Grogan and coach Josh Josh on Bobby: Sparring went well. Bobby knuckled up and I’m happy with how things are going. Bobby has pretty good feet and today he really put together his offense really well. Everything went as planned.Fighter Greg Wetzel and coach Josh Josh on Greg: There’s always work to do, we’re always improving. We’re halfway through and I’m pretty confident we’re going to get where we need to be by Fight Night. I saw a lot of opportunities come up in sparring, so we’re going to drill things home. We’ll tighten up, no problem. Greg puts in work, so I’m not worried.Fighter Stephen Gill and coach Lee Lee on Stephen: Sparring was good. There are a few things we need to work on, but he did good for his first time. I want him to be able to set up shots better, but he’s doing great, he’s putting in a lot of work.
Read more ›
Tuesday Oct 9, 2018
Why They Fight: Belles of the Brawl VI
With 32 different women stepping in the ring for the first time on October 10th you can imagine there must be a lot of nerves and emotions swirling around. Excitement, fear, anticipation, hope, dread, the list goes on. They all have someone their fighting for, they all have individual things driving them. They’re lives have all been touched by cancer in some way. As fight night is approaching get an inside look as to what motivates these brave men and women who are stepping in the ring to literally knock out cancer. Many of my family members have been affected by cancer. My cousin fought lymphoma, my grandfather passed away less than 3 months from being diagnosed with leukemia (AML), his wife, my grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly thereafter. Both of my dogs just passed from gastrointestinal lymphoma and mast cell tumor. My father in law is fighting currently with cancer as well. I keep all these people I love in my thoughts and also keep the patients I see daily with me as motivation. -Natalie MooreToo many people, unfortunately. Fighting in the ring in peanuts to fighting cancer but it's something I can do to help. To my grandmother, my grandfather, Isobel Martin, Marybeth Russell and the many more who are battling, this is for you - keep kicking ass and I will do the same! If you aren't able to see me fight on October 10th because cancer took you from us too soon know that every punch is for you and I hope you're watching from a better place. Love you all! -Alyssa CoteMy mom. In 2007 she was diagnosed with breast cancer and this June she was able to celebrate her tenth-year cancer free. To be able to raise awareness for this awful disease and hopefully raise enough money to maybe prevent just one person from having to go through what my mom did, that would be a success to me. She’s the strongest person I know and I’m inspired to find that strength within myself during this journey. -Kayla SheaCancer has had a horrible presence in my life for as long as I can remember. At 5yrs old I lost my grandmother, had my own scare with stage 2 melanoma, went on to lose my Dad, my grandfather and a boyfriend, along with many others. It feels good to fight in their memory. -Tracy DeforgeI'm constantly drawing inspiration from my family. We all know someone who has been diagnosed with cancer, some of my family members included. Some were able to pull through, while others could not. This is for them, so that hopefully one day cancer is a thing of the past. -Brianna SavardEveryone knows someone who has battled cancer. This year, in particular, has been a crushing year for several close friends and family friends who are struggling with or who have lost the struggle with the disease. This event is a small way of showing support and doing something positive in the face of negativity, set backs, and crushing news in the lives of people with cancer. -Grace BloodwellMy mom is a breast cancer survivor. She was diagnosed early on so we consider her one of the lucky ones, but as a teenager watching her go through treatment was tough. 15+ years later I still see how her body was affected by the disease. She's only incredibly strong woman! I'm fighting for women like her and anyone else tackling this disease. -Stephanie RokitowskiI am fighting to honor my mom, Trish Courant, and my teammate, Judy Layzer, who lost their battles with cancer. -Allie LawlerI’ve seen what cancer does to a person, a family, a life. It’s different when you are living it day in and day out. The world doesn’t stop for you; you have to call on your inner strength to get through another day. That is what my husband, children and I have had to do. -Stacy MacQuarrieI’m sick of watching the people I love and the people I surround myself with struggle with this terrible disease. Whether it’s you, someone you love or someone you just met, everyone has had some experience with cancer and it’s just got to stop. -Kiley HorneMy grandfather Tom Sullivan passed away from cancer. My grandmother Faye Sullivan is a cancer survivor. My best friend and college roommate lost her mom to cancer. I volunteer at Camp Sunshine and have seen too many children lose their fight to this terrible disease. -Jane AnnisMy inspiration is Sonny Tropeano a 10 yr old boy who never had the chance to enjoy his life because cancer took that opportunity from him way too soon! It's not fair! & it certainly does not discriminate! -Denise LavinoCancer has hit my family though and through- mom, dad, aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins... Moving in to friends the stories grow and grow. I can't think of a time where I didn't know someone fighting cancer. I'm using this fight as a platform to share their stories and bring awareness to how prevalent this disease is. Each one of them told me their story is "boring" and to me that just makes them more badass and inspiring. Here they are raising kids, going to work, running companies, driving to soccer practice, cleaning the house doing all those things we all whine about and kicking cancer's butt in their free time. And then telling me they're boring. If that's not humbling, and inspiring, I don't know what is. -Molly FalconerI’m 47 years old. My childhood sweetheart was recently taken by this horrible disease leaving his wife and kids. When my best friend was diagnosed, my heart broke again. I’m fighting for them. -Paula SullivanSeeing what this disease can do and doing what I can to help find a cure. In my own family both my Dad and my Cousin Danielle are cancer survivors, my Uncle Roy and Aunt Phillis lost their lives to this disease. Seeing what they went through and their immediate families is what is driving me.During my time at BC I met two people that changed my life. Judith and Larry Theriault, twins born with Pediatric brain Tumors. They were paired with sports teams at Boston College through the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation. Judith is in remission and was part of our team (BC women lacrosse) and is now a teacher. Larry was part of the baseball team and has become a close friend. Larry is battling a tumor and working with Dana Farber to get on the newest trial available to fight this.My family and friends affected by this disease are my inspiration. Knowing that outside my own world this disease affects the lives of so many will drive me every day. -Brittany WiltonI’m currently drawing my inspiration from “Mighty Max” Mendez—an eight-year-old boy from my hometown in NH. Max has not only been fighting leukemia, making frequent trips to Boston for grueling treatments, but also doing a crazy amount of fundraising for Dana Farber/Jimmy Fund so eventually, there might be a cure and no more kids have to deal with cancer. I am so impressed by how relentless he is in the face of something really scary, that I couldn’t NOT do my part. In terms of a personal connection to the awfulness of cancer, I've had friends and classmates fight cancer, sometimes unsuccessfully, and it is never a fair fight. I had a front-row seat watching my Grampa get slowly devoured by prostate cancer a few years ago—going from a healthy mainstay of our family to a progressively smaller, less coherent shade of himself before an untimely death. It was awful to stand by helplessly and watch his demise in progress, and I wish no one else had to go through that. -Kim HolmanCancer is all around us, unfortunately. Everyone can tell a story about a time that cancer has affected their lives. I know that I'll experience setbacks and doubts throughout this experience. These challenges are nothing compared to the battle that cancer patients, survivors/(or thrivers as I like to think of them), and families go through on a daily basis. I have power and control over my journey, and I will continue forward knowing that with each punch thrown and taken, I am literally fighting for a cure. -Claudia RosenblattIt is still a shocker to say that I'm "stepping into the ring." When training days get hard and there are days I get frustrated, I keep reminding myself that this is all for my Nana. My Nana was the foundation for our family - she held everything together. After losing her battle with breast cancer about 10 years ago, our family fell apart. She was such a hard working woman and if I can be half of what she was, I will have succeeded. -Michele WescottMy Grandfather, Ken Taylor. That man worked his 9-5 job up until the day before cancer took him... he REFUSED to let the disease break his spirit. He literally fought until the very end and he NEVER gave up. That mental and physical strength, combined with every positive life lesson that he taught me as a child, is inspiration in itself. I'm a Taylor - regardless of the outcome, we fight. -Jenna TaylorMy inspiration: Susan Harney, Honorable Judge Sam Zoll, Danny Jacobs, Mason Silva, Dior Stavros.... There are so many reasons why I am stepping into the ring to knock out cancer. I knew when I first heard of Haymakers for Hope, having family, friends, co-works, clients, former students and my friends children battle cancer; some who have lost their battles was reason enough. This past December I was asked by my friend to come and photograph his children for their Christmas card. His daughter was in Boston Children’s battling Leukemia and getting the kids into a studio was not going to be an option so we transformed her room into a studio and the pictures were spectacular. While I was at the hospital I saw how many children were in this enormous building fighting cancer. This experience alone was reason enough to want to fight! -Emily HarneyI, like everyone else, have friends and family who have been directly affected by cancer. This disease affects everyone regardless of age, race, and gender, and is one of the leading causes of death- with the right treatment, a lot of these tragedies can be avoided. Fundraising and stepping into the ring is the least I can do to raise awareness, and fight for those close to me who fought without a choice. -Alex KelleherI'm inspired by all of the people who have faced and fought cancer, including my aunt, uncle and grandfather who have passed away in the last three years after battling cancer. -Carolyn MalloyI'm drawing my inspiration from my patients that are so close to my heart. You haven't seen resiliency until you've seen a kid and their family endure cancer treatment. They are constantly battling the fear of the unknown while trying to focus on 24 hours by 24 hours. They have more mental toughness than they're even aware of and show up day after day ready to get after it. I'm so lucky to be a part of their journeys. I learn something big from them every single day. I'm also fighting for my grandma Bev Siagel who beat cancer twice and Poppa Julius Gundersheim, who continues to live with cancer to this day. They are unbelievable and take care of themselves impeccably to make sure that they are here for us. I love them so much. You'll find them in the front row of HOB possibly with their eyes closed, but regardless ready to watch me perform. -Jillian GundersheimCancer and loosing people I love to this disease has taught me to cherish life, time, to make time for loved ones, to live a happy life, and to not give up on the things/people in my life that mean the most to me. Life is hard. I am grateful to have this opportunity to give back and raise awareness. -Lauren WeishaarOne of my closest family friends was diagnosed with multiple myeloma and her diagnosis made all of the cancer-related statistics we’ve all heard more than just a number. She and countless others wake up daily to fight a battle they didn’t sign up for. Dedicating just four months to raise money for cancer awareness and research is the least I can do. -Sophie Morgan
Read more ›
Tuesday Oct 9, 2018
This Boston Gym Has a Secret Weapon: Haymakers Alumnae
All boxers know that when Fight Night’s on the horizon, there’s no shortage of advice going around. Fellow boxers, coaches, and well-intentioned friends chime in with ideas on how to succeed (or survive!) in those eight minutes in the ring. One of our Boston gyms has a lot of advice for current fighters, and they know what they’re talking about. Elite Boxing Gym in North Attleboro has been training boxers since the early days of Haymakers for Hope; what’s remarkable is how many of those fighters stick around. We caught up with some of our Haymakers boxers, past and present, to see what training has been like leading up to Belles of the Brawl 2018.Many of the women who work out at Elite have a similar story; they came for the workouts and stayed for the team. Fighter Deja Cairns remembers getting started: “I started at Elite for exercise. I remember going in and being completely overwhelmed, but the gym was really supportive right away.” Deja met then-Haymakers fighter Laura Stoke at Elite; Laura’s one of the reasons Deja ultimately decided to sign up for Haymakers. Laura’s introduction to the fight game was also inspired by the women around her.“I had the best group of boxer/mentor/badass women helping me train. Four women in particular mentored me through my process. At least one of them was with me in the gym each day, or running with me, and we had a constant group text. The fact that they had been through it allowed them to support me through training better than anyone else could. They understood why I was fighting and how I could accomplish it.”One of Elite’s newer fighters, Brianna Savard, sees the benefits of training with Haymakers alumnae, too. “It's been so supportive,” she said. “It's this sort of family. Even before I signed up for Haymakers, I was at Elite and knew the women. I saw Deja go through it last year. There's this familial bond here, it’s the people. The gym itself is just a couple of bags and a ring. The people make it.”Her teammate Tracy Deforge also fights this week in Belles of the Brawl. Both women agree they’re uniquely positioned for success coming out of Elite. “The second half of training is so intensified,” Tracy said, “But this gym has so many women who are willing to come spar. We're getting the time in the ring that we need. You can prepare for everything as well as train strategically.”With the few final days of training ahead, the Haymakers alumnae at Elite have a few words of wisdom for the Belles.“Concentrate. Listen to your coach.” -Jessica Gravel“Enjoy the moment. It’s eight minutes and it seems like eternity.” - Deja Cairns“If you work as hard as you possibly can, when you're in the ring and the winner is about to be announced, you will know that you've already won. “ - Laura StokesThe fighters at Elite get more than sparring and advice, though. All the former Haymakers women I talked to promised they’d be ringside, screaming themselves hoarse for their teammates and welcoming them into the very elite club of women who conquered Fight Night when it’s done. BY STEPHANIE KENT
Read more ›
Thursday Sep 27, 2018
Boxer in Training: Shaun Rose
You’ve heard who they are and why they’re fighting. But now that we’re over the halfway mark until the big night on November 15th, things have started to pick up a bit. Training is getting more intense. They’ve been punched in the face. Most have had a bloody nose here or there, their diets have changed, and boxing is becoming an everyday part of their lives. So we figured it was about time to check back in and see how things have been going. Shaun Rose has been putting in work at Gotham Gym and below you’ll hear about her first time sparring and more about his experience with Haymakers thus far.We’re halfway to fight night, how is your training coming along? Training is going great. Feeling strong and as light as I have been this millennium.What is your weekly routine? One on ones with coach Monday and Thursday. Strength, conditioning and bag work Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. Sparring Wednesday and A couple other times a week. Sunday is family day.How has your diet changed since training began? A lot more color and a lot less deliciousnous.Tell us about your first-time sparring, different than expected? Pretty much what I expected. Getting punched sucks. Landing punches doesn’t.What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far? Life happens no matter what. It’s not easy sticking to a very specific routine while navigating family, business and social matters.What does your family think of your participation? My wife, kids and family are all extremely supportive. They are even more supportive because I have such a significant reason for fighting and because of who I am fighting for. They are also happy I have taken steps to improve my overall health. My mom isn’t in love with the idea of me getting punched.It’s amazing how many people’s lives have been touched by cancer in some way - has there been anyone that has surprised you by their story? I have received so many emails, texts and calls thanking me for my participation and fundraising. So many people have shared their stories and why it has moved them to see me do this. It is something i will cherish forever.Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training? I started training to improve my health by way of losing weight. I now think of everyone that has been touched by this horrible disease and knowing I am fighting for them, gets me through every workout and sparring session.Donate to Shaun or purchase a ticket to Hope NYC VII on November 15th!
Read more ›
Thursday Sep 27, 2018
Boxer in Training: Emily Harney
You’ve heard who they are and why they’re fighting. But now that we’re over the halfway mark until the big night on October 10th, things have started to pick up a bit. Training is getting more intense. They’ve been punched in the face. Most have had a bloody nose here or there, their diets have changed, and boxing is becoming an everyday part of their lives. So we figured it was about time to check back in and see how things have been going. Brianna Savard has been putting in work at Elite Boxing & Fitness and below you’ll hear about her first time sparring and more about his experience with Haymakers thus far.We’re halfway to fight night, how is your training coming along? I have never felt this amazing in my life! Training is going really well and I could not be happier.What is your weekly routine? Currently, I am doing my road work in the mornings, running the streets of Salem and neighboring North Shore cities. Monday through Friday and some Saturdays, I am at Tomasello's Boxing in the evening. I am about to go back to work as a high school visual arts teacher so my regular routine might change slightly.How has your diet changed since training began? Yes I am eating more fruits and veggies, smaller meals.....and way less ice cream and fried dough than previous summers...as in way less I mean none, zero, zilch.Tell us about your first-time sparring, different than expected? The first time I sparred, the original sparring partner bailed so I stepped into the ring with a girl who outweighed me by 2-3 weight classes and is much taller than I. It was way tougher that I thought and my respect for boxers, amateur and pro heightened. I realized I left my mental game at home and that is something I have been focusing on more. You can be in the best shape of your life but if your mental game is not on point, everything can fall apart.What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far? Some days just getting to the gym or getting up and running. I remind myself of two things when this happens: 1. Those fighting cancer don't stop fighting, they don't give up or take time off from the fight. 2. Micky Ward said it best when he was training for his third fight with Arturo Gatti, "I want to make sure I do everything I need to prepare myself for this fight. No cutting corners, no cheating on my diet. So, in the end, I can say I did everything I possibly could to perform at my best."What does your family think of your participation? My Mom was definitely skeptical but she has come around and bought her ticket.It’s amazing how many people’s lives have been touched by cancer in some way - has there been anyone that has surprised you by their story? Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training? I will also be honoring my Uncle Tony Mazzola and my good friend and former President of USA Boxing Connecticut Roland Roy who passed away this August.Donate to Emily or purchase a ticket to Belles of the Brawl VI on October 10th!
Read more ›
Thursday Sep 27, 2018
Boxer in Training: Brianna Savard
You’ve heard who they are and why they’re fighting. But now that we’re over the halfway mark until the big night on October 10th, things have started to pick up a bit. Training is getting more intense. They’ve been punched in the face. Most have had a bloody nose here or there, their diets have changed, and boxing is becoming an everyday part of their lives. So we figured it was about time to check back in and see how things have been going. Brianna Savard has been putting in work at Elite Boxing & Fitness and below you’ll hear about her first time sparring and more about his experience with Haymakers thus far.We’re halfway to fight night, how is your training coming along? Exhaustingly empowering! Every day and every week is an improvement from the last.What is your weekly routine? I'm typically at the gym 5-6 days a week, with sparring 2-3 days, sprints/runs 5-6 days, and weights/strengthing and conditioning 3 days. Saturday mornings are the best - always a huge crowd of badass men and women at the gym for training and sparring.How has your diet changed since training began? Clean. Clean. Clean. And a lot less wine... and tacos. But a LOT of chicken. Basically already planning my first 5 meals for after the fight though.Tell us about your first-time sparring, different than expected? Definitely a bit different. To go from throwing punches at a bag, or partnering with mitts, to actually moving and trying to punch another moving object was a bit of an adjustment at first.What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far? I would say the diet part - there are some days where you just crave a taco, or a juicy burger and beer, or even a chocolate bar, but instead you make some diced strawberries with chia seeds in hopes of curving your sweet tooth.What does your family think of your participation? They're all so incredibly proud and supportive. They've seen my transformation from just who I was 18 months ago to now and always remark how this is the best version of myself they've ever seen. Just wait until fight night, fam...It’s amazing how many people’s lives have been touched by cancer in some way - has there been anyone that has surprised you by their story? Oh totally - there have been a few Belle's who've told me their own close, personal stories with cancer and I'm incredibly blown away by their strength and perseverance.Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training? Nope, still there - kick cancer's ass.Donate to Brianna or purchase a ticket to Belles of the Brawl VI on October 10th!
Read more ›
Thursday Sep 27, 2018
Boxer in Training: Alyssa Cote
You’ve heard who they are and why they’re fighting. But now that we’re over the halfway mark until the big night on October 10th, things have started to pick up a bit. Training is getting more intense. They’ve been punched in the face. Most have had a bloody nose here or there, their diets have changed, and boxing is becoming an everyday part of their lives. So we figured it was about time to check back in and see how things have been going. Alyssa Cote has been putting in work at Nonantum Boxing Club and below you’ll hear about her first time sparring and more about his experience with Haymakers thus far.We’re halfway to fight night, how is your training coming along? Training has it's ups and downs. I have days where I feel great and then I have days where I'm exhausted and I feel like I do everything wrong. Boxing has been the most mentally challenging thing I have ever done. I try to just stay focused and learn something every single day.What is your weekly routine? I try to train at Nonantum 4 days a week but most weeks I only get 3 days in. Usually 2 sparring days and 1 or 2 strength and conditioning days. When I am not at Nonantum you can find me working out at Orangetheory or running the stairs at Harvard Stadium.How has your diet changed since training began? Being a trainer myself my nutrition has always been pretty consistent. The biggest change I have made is that I have stopped drinking alcohol. I stick to eating real foods...green vegetables, chicken, fish, berries!Tell us about your first-time sparring, different than expected? I was just glad to get it out of the way. Definitely intimidating but once you get comfortable taking a punch to the face it's not as bad as it seems. I do get anxious every single time I spar though. I try to find a goal or a focus for sparring which makes it less scary than trying to go all out and 'win' - it's about learning every time you step in the ring.What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far? I like to workout in the morning and we train/spar at 7pm which has been an adjustment for me. I am usually in bed by 8pm since I get up at 4:30am to train at Orangetheory. At 7pm I am usually pretty exhausted but once I get there and get moving the adrenaline kicks in!What does your family think of your participation? They are very supportive and can't wait to come to the fight on October 10th. My family is my number one fan and I just want to make them proud. They were a little taken back by the black eye but got over it quickly once they knew I was okay!It’s amazing how many people’s lives have been touched by cancer in some way - has there been anyone that has surprised you by their story? I had two Orangetheory members (a father and son) visiting Boston for a month while their mother was getting cancer treatment. Shes now 100% cancer free and they made a donation to Haymakers. Pretty incredible that two complete strangers just coming to get a sweat on and take an hour out of their day to take their mind off of their mothers sickness have now become an important part of this journey and my motivation.Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training? Since signing up for Haymakers my best friends mom, Isobel, has passed away so that's been some additional inspiration. My best friend is also fighting in Haymakers in NYC so together we have been inspiring each other and talking about our journey and training. My grandfather is very sick and fighting every day so his fight keeps me inspired!Donate to Alyssa or purchase a ticket to Belles of the Brawl VI on October 10th!
Read more ›
Thursday Sep 27, 2018
Boxer in Training: Tracy Deforge
You’ve heard who they are and why they’re fighting. But now that we’re over the halfway mark until the big night on October 10th, things have started to pick up a bit. Training is getting more intense. They’ve been punched in the face. Most have had a bloody nose here or there, their diets have changed, and boxing is becoming an everyday part of their lives. So we figured it was about time to check back in and see how things have been going. Tracy Deforge has been putting in work at Elite Boxing & Fitness and below you’ll hear about her first time sparring and more about his experience with Haymakers thus far.We’re halfway to fight night, how is your training coming along? It's going really well but I know I have a lot more work to do. The hard part is yet to come.What is your weekly routine? I am doing my boxing workouts 3-4 times a week and working in cardio on the other days, making sure to take a rest day.How has your diet changed since training began? Much more aware of everything you put in your mouth. I don't always make the best decisions but I am very aware of that as I do it! Its hard not to have ice cream in the summer ;)Tell us about your first-time sparring, different than expected? First time sparring was a complete eye opener on how hard boxing really is. SO much to think about - the first of which is "keep your hands up".......so much harder than it seems.What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far? The chaos of life definitely stops me from being as disciplined as I want to be. Kids, summer vacation, poison ivy, job all vying for your time and energy.What does your family think of your participation? My family is excited now. Hesitant at first they couldn't be more supportive at this stage.Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training? Not changed it but actually I think that taking this journey has broadened my inspiration. Now I see complete strangers that I can clearly see are afflicted with cancer and I've been going out of my way to tell them that I, and so many others, are fighting for them.Donate to Tracy or purchase a ticket to Belles of the Brawl VI on October 10th!
Read more ›
Thursday Sep 27, 2018
Boxer in Training: Claudia Rosenblatt
You’ve heard who they are and why they’re fighting. But now that we’re over the halfway mark until the big night on October 10th, things have started to pick up a bit. Training is getting more intense. They’ve been punched in the face. Most have had a bloody nose here or there, their diets have changed, and boxing is becoming an everyday part of their lives. So we figured it was about time to check back in and see how things have been going. Claudia Rosenblatt has been putting in work at Grealish Boxing and below you’ll hear about her first time sparring and more about his experience with Haymakers thus far.We’re halfway to fight night, how is your training coming along? Training is going well, I feel like I am learning something new everyday!What is your weekly routine? We try to get a training session in at the gym every weeknight. It's been tough to fit this in with a busy work schedule! I'll supplement with morning workouts/yoga sessions as well. Sundays are always a rest day though to reset for the week ahead!How has your diet changed since training began? I've been more mindful about sugar intake and things that make me feel not great. With intense training sessions, you always want to feel your best, or fatigue will set in.Tell us about your first-time sparring, different than expected? I definitely didn't expect the exhaustion that 2 minutes could bring! Also *hi tears*... Frustration becomes overwhelming when built on exhaustion, but each session gets better with practice!What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far? Beautiful weather/heat has made it hard to give up an afternoon outside with a cold beverage!What does your family think of your participation? My parents continually express how proud they are that I am taking on such an incredible challenge... yet my mother continues to ask if I've ever gotten punched in the face... Yes.. I think she'll be watching the fight through her hands!It’s amazing how many people’s lives have been touched by cancer in some way - has there been anyone that has surprised you by their story? Hearing stories about how people have been impacted by cancer, and how their lives have been improved and enhanced by the quality of work done at Dana Farber is truly amazing. It makes this journey so much more meaningful to know the impact on people's lives.Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training? The number of people who have come out to support me in this journey has been incredible. I feel lucky to have such a great squad in my corner, and every message of encouragement I receive fuels my motivation!Donate to Claudia or purchase a ticket to Belles of the Brawl VI on October 10th!
Read more ›
Wednesday Sep 26, 2018
Boxer in Training: Kim Holman
You’ve heard who they are and why they’re fighting. But now that we’re over the halfway mark until the big night on October 10th, things have started to pick up a bit. Training is getting more intense. They’ve been punched in the face. Most have had a bloody nose here or there, their diets have changed, and boxing is becoming an everyday part of their lives. So we figured it was about time to check back in and see how things have been going. Kim Holman has been putting in work at BoxSmith and below you’ll hear about her first time sparring and more about his experience with Haymakers thus far.We’re halfway to fight night, how is your training coming along? Training is... great? Some days are definitely better than others! It's so interesting to have entered this process despising running and not being able to run much at all, and now it's one of the easier parts of training (in its lack of mental demand and routine). Honestly I am enjoying it, all of it. It's really cool to see my fitness evolving, and being more capable each week.What is your weekly routine? Each week I take bag/technique classes and spar at BoxSmith—I love [my coach] Jess' focus on technique! In addition to putting in work at the boxing gym, I run, strength train, and take the occasion HIIT or spin class. I'm trying to get better at adding in a lot more stretching.How has your diet changed since training began? My diet hasn't exactly changed since the beginning of training, but I'm definitely more comfortable with getting the necessary amounts of protein and veggies I need each day without having to stress it or think about it. Not to brag or anything, but I also feel like my knowledge of the protein powder market is really impressive at this point.Tell us about your first-time sparring, different than expected? I'm trying to remember my early sparring days and I don't think they were that different than expected, though a punch in the face is definitely a surprise as a beginner (still is, some days). My biggest battles in the early days were getting myself to hit someone forcefully—that's why we are here, after all—and not apologizing after hitting someone. Those tendencies didn't last long, thankfully!What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far? The hardest part of this process is being dedicated enough to work through anything—no matter how hard the day was, or how off I am feeling. It's definitely more a mental battle than physical. Self-care is another challenge, I'm learning just how extreme this sport is, and that it's important to take care of yourself amidst training.What does your family think of your participation? There is such a wide range of family opinions here! Ultimately, they're all pretty proud of my efforts. My mom doesn't think she can come see this all go down, but shows her support in care packages of epsom salts and protein-filled snacks and other fun comfort things. I think my dad is secretly thrilled I'm participating in such an extreme sport after attending years and years of dance concerts. My husband, sister, and bro-in-law are there as an amazing support team for endless group texts (weird new muscle/bruise pics, rants, braggy successes... I'm awful, trust me) and phone calls. Extra points to my husband, Russell, who deals with everything from the agility ladder constantly occupying our living room and my frustrated tears every now and then, and is still proud and willing to help out in any way that he can.It’s amazing how many people’s lives have been touched by cancer in some way - has there been anyone that has surprised you by their story? I don't think any one specific story has surprised me, more so the quantity of stories. From chatting with my fellow Belles on Media Day to interactions on social media, everyone has a cancer story. Literally everyone. I can't wait until this isn't the case!Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training? Recently I got to meet "Mighty Max", an 8-yr-old from my hometown that is battling leukemia. Max was always an inspiration to me, but meeting him (and having him sign my gloves!) put a lot into perspective, especially amidst a rough training week. Max fights daily. So can I.Donate to Kim or purchase a ticket to Belles of the Brawl V on October 10th!
Read more ›Showing 131 to 140 of 445 results