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Monday Aug 27, 2018
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Hope NYC in NYC on November 15th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether they've had first hand experience, their father has passed or their friend has put up a victory against the disease – they’ve all got a story to tell and they’ve all got a reason to fight. Below you’ll hear from Bobby Grogan, fighting out of Church Street Boxing Gym in New York City.Where are you from? Florham Park, NJWhere did you go to college? Princeton UniversityDid you play any sports growing up? Wrestling, Football, & BaseballWhat do you do for work? Loan TradingWhy boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting? I've had colleagues and former HS teammates participate in Haymakers. So that's how it got on my radar.Why on earth did you sign up to fight? It was an opportunity to challenge and push myself, force myself to make healthy choices, and all in the name of a worthy cause.You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure – where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you? My grandfather, Jim Grogan, was a Union Asbestos Laborer for many years and as such was exposed to the carcinogenic agent that is asbestos. He developed mesothelioma and asbestosis (cancers of the lungs) as a result. The tail-end of his career in the asbestos industry is hallmarked by his fight against these diseases with the development of a tissue bank at Mt. Sinai to support the research of these terrible diseases. He is also an avid boxing/mma fan, so he'll be excited to see some punches thrown!What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? Booze is definitely going to be a challenge given the nature of my business and frequent client outings where you are surrounded by it. I have been overwhelmed though by client and co-worker support in this endeavor both by their donations and by their commitment to this with me, handing me ice tea or waters where the usual tito's & soda would be. Some are even helping me with my walk out song; everyone's getting involved!When you’re not throwing punches and training - what other hobbies/interests do you have? I picked up golf after college with my brother and while he's, admittedly, gotten much better at it then I have, I still enjoy being out there with him (and stealing a couple holes from him a round).Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night? Edward "Eddy The Neck" MashkovichBe sure to check out his fundraising page and wish him luck! Best of luck, Bobby!
Read more ›Monday Aug 27, 2018
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. Stacy MacQuarrie has been putting in work at CoreBox Randolph 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? Its exhausting but I’m happy with my progress and I’m having fun!!What is your weekly routine? I typically spar 2/3 times a week and work straight conditioning the other 3/4 days. I try to take one rest day or at least take it easy ;)How has your diet changed since training began? I’ve always had a pretty good diet regimen, but I’ve tightened it up a bit and I’ve definitely cut down on the drinks!Tell us about your first-time sparring, different than expected? It was very nerve racking. Not something you can easily explain unless you’ve done it. I don’t think you can really prepare for the feeling of being punched in the face.What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far? Training when you are exhausted. Just this morning I conditioned for an hour before sparring and was spent, but you have to push on, dig deep and just do it!What does your family think of your participation? They are super supportive and proud. My kids think it’s pretty cool that their mom is boxing and keep trying to pick my fighter alias and intro song ?!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? Yes, it seems everyone you come across has some connection to this horrible disease. Listening to the other “Belles” tell their stories is very inspirational and only makes me more motivated to do this.Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training? I started this journey to support my amazing husband, Jamie, and Marisa’s Mission, cancer charity organization, who has been good to so many in honor of their loved one that passed. When you start hearing everyone’s story, you start doing it for them too and supporting each other. It’s really cool to be a part of it!Donate to Stacy or purchase a ticket to Belles of the Brawl V on October 10th here!
Read more ›Monday Aug 27, 2018
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. Jane Annis has been putting in work at Fitness Advantage 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? Amazing couldn’t ask for a better gym/trainer and support system!!What is your weekly routine? Work, Boxing, Running, Meal Prepping & SleepingHow has your diet changed since training began? No more margaritas/ ice creamTell us about your first-time sparring, different than expected? Great experience! Felt well prepared!What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far? Not sleeping in on the weekendsWhat does your family think of your participation? They are very supportive!!!!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? All the Belles stories are so amazing and truly inspirational!!Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training? No just more and more inspired each day!Donate to Jane or purchase a ticket to Belles of the Brawl V on October 10th here!
Read more ›Thursday Aug 23, 2018
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Belles of the Brawl VI in Boston on October 10th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether they've had first hand experience, their father has passed or their friend has put up a victory against the disease – they’ve all got a story to tell and they’ve all got a reason to fight. Below you’ll hear from Sophie Morgan, fighting out of EverybodyFights.Where are you from? I was born in Australia but moved around a lot as a kid. Boston has been my home for about the last 10 years.Where’d you go to college? Harvard UniversityDid you play any sports growing up? I started swimming when I was 6 and competed all through college.What do you do for work? I’m a corporate attorney at Nixon Peabody LLP.Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting? Boxing workouts were the closest things I could find to the conditioning I did for swimming. I never thought I’d actually step into a ring and fight, but I also never thought I’d stop eating white chocolate chips and here we are #fightweightorbustWhy on earth did you sign up to fight?? All the cool kids were doing it. But honestly, a lot of my friends fought in the past and had nothing but great things to say about their experience. It’s a lot of work and a grueling process, but that all fails in comparison to how rewarding it is to know you’re fighting for a good cause.You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure – Where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you? One 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.What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?) White. Chocolate. Chips.When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have? I spend my free time (!?) going to the movies, making countless playlists on Spotify, doing puzzles or watching Bravo or HBO.Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night? Jordan McMillan. I bailed on a taco night once and she’s still not over it.Be sure to check out her fundraising page and wish her luck! Best of luck, Sophie!
Read more ›Thursday Aug 23, 2018
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Belles of the Brawl VI in Boston on October 10th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether they've had first hand experience, their father has passed or their friend has put up a victory against the disease – they’ve all got a story to tell and they’ve all got a reason to fight. Below you’ll hear from Carolyn Malloy, fighting out of EverybodyFights.Where are you from? Windham, NHWhere’d you go to college? Northeastern UniversityDid you play any sports growing up? I played Ice Hockey, Field Hockey, Lacrosse, Basketball, Track & Field and othersWhat do you do for work? I'm an Account Executive for LogMeIn, a software company in the Seaport.Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting? Boxing has been the most challenging and strategic sport I've ever participated in and has become a huge part of my life since I started. I've always liked contact sports so I did picture myself trying boxing at some point and I'm very glad I did!Why on earth did you sign up to fight?? I signed up to fight after attending a Haymakers event and after seeing what an incredible organization it is. I was blown away by the impact Haymakers is making on fighting against cancer and knew I wanted to be a part of it to also make a difference.You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure – Where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you? I'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.What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?) Loco’s burnt end tacos and coco margs.When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have? I am usually spending time with my pup, Kya or bopping around town with friends. I also love traveling to new places and spending time with my family at the lake.Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night? My lovely roommate, Jordan McMillanBe sure to check out her fundraising page and wish her luck! Best of luck, Carolyn!
Read more ›Thursday Aug 23, 2018
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Belles of the Brawl VI in Boston on October 10th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether they've had first hand experience, their father has passed or their friend has put up a victory against the disease – they’ve all got a story to tell and they’ve all got a reason to fight. Below you’ll hear from Alexandra Kelleher, fighting out of EverybodyFights.Where are you from? Worcester, MAWhere’d you go to college? Boston CollegeDid you play any sports growing up? I played almost every sport growing up, but focused solely on tennis in high school, and played at BC.What do you do for work? ConsultingWhy boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting? After I graduated from BC, and stopped playing tennis, I needed a new challenge. I started doing mitts and I was immediately addicted- the next logical step for me was to make it competitive. I never pictured myself fighting, but I can already tell that I will continue to spar post Haymakers!Why on earth did you sign up to fight?? Teaching at EBF, I am surrounded by fighters all the time. I have watched several groups go through the Haymakers training, and I knew I wanted to be a part of that community. Everyone is fighting for something bigger than themselves - it is an opportunity to be selfless and fight for those who can't.You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure – Where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you? I, 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.What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?) The most difficult thing for me to give up during training has been chocolate covered almonds. However, I stopped eating them and immediately lost 2 pounds, which is horrifying. I actually enjoy eating healthy so my biggest challenge will be trying to hit my goal weight while maintaining my strength!When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have? When I'm not training, my other hobbies include....working out and teaching fitness classes ha. I am really passionate about helping others reach their goals and have a lot of personal goals I am striving to reach as well. Other interests...going to dinner with friends, spending time in the sun (we don't get enough of it here!), drinking too much coffee...the usual.Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night? I think my sister is probably the most excited to see me get punched in the face. She's my biggest supporter, but I also drive her absolutely crazy and, as her roommate, I know she has wanted to knock me out a few times. Hopefully there aren't too many other people that want to see me take a punch, but if they buy a ticket and support the cause, then its a win win.Be sure to check out her fundraising page and wish her luck! Best of luck, Alex!
Read more ›Thursday Aug 23, 2018
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Belles of the Brawl VI in Boston on October 10th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether they've had first hand experience, their father has passed or their friend has put up a victory against the disease – they’ve all got a story to tell and they’ve all got a reason to fight. Below you’ll hear from Emily Harney, fighting out of Tomasello’s.Where are you from? Salem, MAWhere’d you go to college? Lesley UniversityDid you play any sports growing up? Swimming and golf.What do you do for work? Visual Arts Teacher, Photographer/PhotojournalistWhy boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting? I've worked in and around boxing for eighteen years as a photographer and consultant to promoters but I have never stepped into the ring to fight. From the first day of working in boxing I have been asked; do you fight? Do you want to fight? My answer has always remained the same, when the time is right, and for the right reasons I would get in the ring. This is also the one part of the business of boxing that I am not familiar with, meaning what it is actually like to train, fight, hit and be hit. I have covered some of the greatest fighters to ever step into the ring, from all angels of their lives, respecting their dedication, work ethic and privacy. Just in the few short weeks I have been training, my respect for their knowledge, dedication and lifestyle choices has elevated.Why on earth did you sign up to fight?? To knock the F out of cancer!!!! And I just need to do it once to fully understand the business I love and respect so much. In 2016 I attended my first Haymakers for Hope event and was blown away by the energy and support for a cause that means so much, to so many of us. I knew if given the opportunity to fight it would be a great honor and truly is.You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure – Where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you? My 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!What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?) Tredwell's Ice Cream Sunday :(When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have? I love spending time with my son, whether playing basketball, hospital or going on adventures he is my partner in crime. I spend many weekends on the road photographing and making films about boxing so I am always working to catch others throwing and landing punches.Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night? My SisterBe sure to check out her fundraising page and wish her luck! Best of luck, Emily!
Read more ›Thursday Aug 23, 2018
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Belles of the Brawl VI in Boston on October 10th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether they've had first hand experience, their father has passed or their friend has put up a victory against the disease – they’ve all got a story to tell and they’ve all got a reason to fight. Below you’ll hear from Jenna Taylor, fighting out of Grealish Boxing.Where are you from? Naples, FLWhere’d you go to college? University of Central Florida (NATIONAL CHAMPIONS, BABY!)Did you play any sports growing up? Cheerleading / GymnasticsWhat do you do for work? Private Equity Executive AssistantWhy boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting? I've always admired the sport, but I saw it as more of an intense hobby where I got to punch a heavy bag and sweat my ass off without judgement... I definitely never pictured myself ACTUALLY fighting. (I have a tendency to surprise even myself sometimes. :)Why on earth did you sign up to fight?? Honestly? I don't have a single solid answer for that. I know it's primarily for my grandfather, for my family and for my friends whose hearts have hurt over the loss of a loved one... but it's also for me. I need this experience, on so many levels. I need to know I'm giving back, I need to know I can still push myself to the limit and not give up, and I need to know that are still good people doing good things for others. These days it seems everyone is out for themselves... we've forgotten that we're all in this life together and we NEED one another. This is my way of reminding those who are paying attention that we're all capable of giving back, regardless of how we do it. We just need to be better humans. All of us. I will take a million punches to prove that.You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure – Where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you? My 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.What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?) Quality time with my Golden Retriever, Walter. No joke. The after work snuggles have been put on hold. :PWhen you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have? I live at Home Depot. I'm so in on the whole DIY craze and love building furniture from scratch. (Yes, Walter comes to Home Depot with me too... ;)Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night? Oh boy... this is tough because there are multiple people. haha Out of everyone, top of the list has to be my baby bro, Dane. Most of his childhood was spent trying to defend himself against myself and our other brother, Drew, so it should be fairly satisfying for him to see me get rocked a few times.Be sure to check out her fundraising page and wish her luck! Best of luck, Jenna!
Read more ›Wednesday Aug 22, 2018
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Belles of the Brawl VI in Boston on October 10th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether they've had first hand experience, their father has passed or their friend has put up a victory against the disease – they’ve all got a story to tell and they’ve all got a reason to fight. Below you’ll hear from Michele Wescott, fighting out of TKO Boxfit.Where are you from? Marlborough, MassachusettsWhere’d you go to college? Colby-Sawyer CollegeDid you play any sports growing up? SoftballWhat do you do for work? Intensive Care Registered Nurse as well as a kickboxing instructorWhy boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting? I NEVER pictured myself starting kickboxing, let alone see myself boxing and/or FIGHTING! I started kickboxing after I graduated college as a way to stay active and try something new, but most importantly, it was something that help me gain my confidence back. I became an instructor to do the same - it's easy to help others when you are passionate about what you do. I NEVER pictured myself getting in the ring and FIGHTING - but I think it's a sport about self discipline and working hard, and fighting for what you love and what you are passionate about - so WHAT NOT fight to KNOCK OUT CANCER?Why on earth did you sign up to fight?? Every time I tell everyone I am fighting this coming October, their immediate response is, "are you CRAZY?" Of course I'm crazy, but I wouldn't change my decision for anything in the world. My main reason to sign up to fight is for my Nana - Marlene Murray. She passed away 10 years ago after losing her battle against breast cancer. This coming October would have been her 80th birthday. I am fighting for her and for everyone and anyone who FIGHTS everyday just to survive. My Nana was one of the strongest women in my life and on top on fighting to knock out cancer, I know she would want me to be the strongest, most independent woman I can be and this is just another way I can show myself as well as many other young woman that boxing isn't just a men's sport and that woman can do ANYTHING - you just have to set your mind to it and WORK HARD!You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure – Where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you? It 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.What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?) Where to begin... I think the hardest thing to give has definitely been the sacrifices with my friends and family. It's been hard to multi-task and get everything accomplished. As it was, I didn't have much "spare time" in my life between my hectic 2 jobs - but now add in training, I really have no time. The food and beverages are just an adjustment and it hasn't been hard, but seeing all your friends and family out on vacations or going to concerts and such is difficult when I have to either adjust my work schedule to work so that I can train on my other hours of the day.When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have? When I'm not training and kicking ass, I'm usually in the gym or working. But when I do have the time, I love to just relax at home with my husband and my 2 kitties. I don't have the chance to relax a lot, so when I do get the chance, it's nice to just sit down, relax, and watch movies.Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night? My mom has to be the most excited to see ME punch others in the FACE, but I honestly feel like my members from my kickboxing gym are the most excited to see me get punched! They are pumped to come out and watch!Be sure to check out her fundraising page and wish her luck! Best of luck, Michele!
Read more ›Wednesday Aug 22, 2018
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Belles of the Brawl VI in Boston on October 10th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether they've had first hand experience, their father has passed or their friend has put up a victory against the disease – they’ve all got a story to tell and they’ve all got a reason to fight. Below you’ll hear from Claudia Rosenblatt, fighting out of Grealish Boxing.Where are you from? I grew up in Andover, MA and now I am living in South Boston.Where’d you go to college? UConn (Go Huskies!!)Did you play any sports growing up? I played softball while growing up into freshman year of high school and continue to play the sport recreationally (with or without beers included..)What do you do for work? I work as an accountant on the Global Finance team at Bain & Company in Boston.Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting? Boxing has always been one of those activities that intimidated me, but was intriguing enough that I had to give it a shot! No way I ever saw myself getting into the ring, but I also just completed a half marathon last month, and a year ago, I couldn't even string together more than 3 miles. "Never say never" has become somewhat of a motto these days I guess! Signing up was just the next step in my journey to living a healthy, active (and somewhat crazy) life.Why on earth did you sign up to fight?? I find that the best way to improve my life, my health, and my personal well-being is to pursue things that challenge me, and that force me to step outside my comfort zone. I've had the words "Mind over matter" ingrained into me by my trainer for the past few years (Heeyyy Melis) and this couldn't be more applicable to boxing. Coupled with an amazing cause to benefit Dana Farber, I can't imagine a better way to take on my newest challenge.You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure – Where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you? Cancer 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.What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?) Oy... summertime is brutal! With barbecues galore, and patio season in full swing, it's going to be difficult to pass up after-work drinks, pizza, and all of those tempting treats... The spontaneous venture to Fenway Park for a weeknight game is no longer an option and I'll certainly miss a chocolate dipped waffle cone filled with coffee oreo ice cream... I should probably stop before I start drooling.When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have? I'll just piggyback of my answer to the last question.... I am a huge Red Sox fan, and as expected with someone who loves to eat, I also love to cook! Besides the gym, the kitchen is my happy place, and I'm known to friends and family as "chef Claudia" (a friend even had an apron made for me). It's really hard to hashtag #chefclaudia on my Instagram posts because there's actually a professional chef that is out there really showing me up....gotta step up my game.Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night? It's hard to say... but I know the person who is LEAST excited is my Mom. The day I told her I was going to participate in Belles, her first comment was "No. Not that face!!" She has come around a bit (but not really), and is likely going to watch the fight from behind her hands, but I know that she is fully supportive of my journey and will show up no matter what!!Be sure to check out her fundraising page and wish her luck! Best of luck, Claudia!
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