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Thursday Jun 14, 2018
Boxer in Training: Bo O'Connell
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 May 17th, 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. Bo O'Connell has been putting in work at Upperkuts and below you’ll hear about his first time sparring and more about his experience with Haymakers thus far.We’re halfway to fight night, how is your training coming along? Overall pretty good, but need to improve sparring fitness level. I've been consistent, with Running, working out and daily exercise, but need to do more sparing.What is your weekly routine? Not sure I have one, as I've been traveling and the last 2 weeks my coach has been away. We'll get in a more structured routine when he gets back next week.How has your diet changed since training began? Yes, overall been more aware of what I am eating (and drinking)!Tell us about your first time sparring, different than expected? The cardio was so much more intense than I expected. Having felt like I was in decent shape and then feeling so frustrated that I was not, also getting popped pretty good a few times was not fun:)What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far? travel, but I've enjoyed the training and feel myself getting into the best shape I've been in quite some time.What does your family think of your participation? They are proud and are good for motivation.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? Just hearing from people I would not expect to hear from and having them support me. Some of them are dealing directly with it today, so it's the same, only more folks I am hearing from who are providing additional support and inspiration.Donate to Bo or purchase a ticket to Rock 'N Rumble VIII on May 17th here!
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Thursday Jun 14, 2018
Rumble in the Rockies: Shawn Queenan
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Rumble in the Rockies in Denver on June 14th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether their mom is battling, 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 Shawn Queenan, fighting out of the ToS Boxing Club.Where are you from? Nashua, NHWhere’d you go to college? Keene State Did you play any sports growing up? Basketball, track What do you do for work? Program manager Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting? No, it’s a good challenge for a great cause. Why on earth did you sign up to fight?? Had a friend who did it in Boston and wanted to try it.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 have two grandparents that I never got know, it runs in my family and has affected othersWhat is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?) All of the above, the overall freedom of having few commitmentsWhen you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have? Hiking, skiing and I sing a mean karaokeWho do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night? All my coworkers that hate that I am a Patriots fanBe sure to check out his fundraising page here and wish him luck! Best of luck, Shawn!
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Thursday Jun 14, 2018
Rumble in the Rockies: Seth Alexander
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Rumble in the Rockies in Denver on June 14th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether their mom is battling, 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 Seth Alexander, fighting out of the Blunt Force Training.Where are you from? Fort Carson, ColoradoDid you play any sports growing up? When I was younger I always preferred participating in alternative sports when I wasn't playing basketball at the local church. I spent most of my time throwing around a Frisbee, it could have been Ultimate Frisbee, Frisbee Golf, or just throwing the Frisbee around with friends. If I wasn't throwing the Frisbee, I would often try and put together after school events with friends and classmates to participate in sports such as Rugby, Lacrosse, and Football. I spent a few years learning Tae Kwon Do in my early teenage years and have always enjoyed competitive martial arts.What do you do for work? I started working with computers at a very young age. I remember when I was eight years old and I wanted to try out a video game on the computer, I have the fondest memory of my father telling me that I had to design a program on the computer before I could start playing video games for the night. He taught me how create a working calculator that night and many more things as time went on. From that moment on I have always had a passion for technology, so I decided to pursue a career in the field. I now work as a System Administration for an investment firm based out of Denver. Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting? I have always enjoyed competitive sports and I really enjoyed competing in Tae Kwon Do tournaments as a teenager. I am extremely excited that I have this opportunity to learn how to box and I can't wait to get in the ring to knock out cancer! Why on earth did you sign up to fight?? Learning how to box, supporting an amazing cause, and literally fighting to cure cancer. I don't think anyone would need another reason! Personally, I think this is one of the most creative ideas to get people involved in the fight for cancer and consider myself very lucky to be involved.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 had 2 Great Grandmothers that were taken by cancer and I never had the opportunity to meet them. Recently I watched a friend drop out of college and move back to live with her family so that she could receive the treatment she needed to knockout cancer. Cancer is around us all the time and I have always asked the question, why don't we have a cure for this yet? When I heard about Haymakers for Hope, I thought what a great opportunity to help find a cure and make people aware of how cancer is affecting peoples lives.What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?) A good Old Fashioned or Craft Beer. However, I am very excited to replace those things with boxing! Boxing is a much better alternative for releasing some stress and is a good opportunity to start eating right and taking care of my body. Even though I will miss a well crafted drink, I know I won't regret it.When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have? Falconry consumes a good portion of my life when I am not working on my punches or working in the office. If I am not working with the bird, then I am fixing up the house, fly fishing, or taking the dog on a hike.Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night? I told my sweet mother about the event and what I was going to be doing... she was not excited to see me get punched, but was very excited that I was involved with such a great organization. I think the people most excited are probably my co-workers, they can get some satisfaction for all the times I told them to just reboot their computer and call me back.Be sure to check out his fundraising page here and wish him luck! Best of luck, Seth!
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Thursday Jun 14, 2018
Boxer in Training: Parker Willard
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 May 17th, 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. Parker Willard has been putting in work at BoxSmith and below you’ll hear about his 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 learned enough to know I have a lot more to learn, and within a short time. I am down 30 lbs since Xmas and over 25 lbs since Fighter Orientation. I love the community and gym that have embraced me. It's been a great all around experience!What is your weekly routine? Monday- Interval Runs, Heavy Bag and Sparring Tuesday- Morning Cardio, Weight Training PM Wednesday- Heavy Bag Thursday-Sparring/Weight Training PM Friday- Yoga (Rest Day) Saturday- Long Run to gym (3 Mi.), Heavy Bag, Sparring (This is my WORK DAY!) Sunday- Heavy Bag AM, Weight Training PMHow has your diet changed since training began? Dramatically. No carbs, pasta and very very little processed anything. Lot's of lean and greens. Chicken, Turkey, Fish, (some) beef and lots of egg whites with a ton of healthy veggies. Watching those macros!!!Tell us about your first time sparring, different than expected? Yeah, I realized I have a lot to learn. And I need to keep my hands up!!!What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far? I still miss Pizza....a lot.What does your family think of your participation? It depends on who you ask. Most of my family is very supportive. Some are a little nervous about me getting in the ring. I assure them that I am getting the best training and putting in the work to be the best I can be. And my son Parker has developed a new love of boxing!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? Just talking to so many clients and friends, new and old, when taking part in small talk. Cancer seems to have touched them all. I love to see their faces when I explain what I am trying to do. They inspire me even more.Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training? I was fighting in memory of my mom and stepdad and in honor of my dad and Papa. I since lost my Papa Carl during training. I have had to train and fight through the loss, literally. I find inspiration knowing that I now have 3 Guardian Angels watching over me for my fight.Donate to Parker or purchase a ticket to Rock 'N Rumble VIII on May 17th here!
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Thursday Jun 14, 2018
Boxer in Training: Tom Galvin
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 May 17th, 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. Tom Galvin has been putting in work at Haverhill Downtown Boxing and below you’ll hear about his 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. Obviously, some days are better than others but the days when I don’t feel like sparring keeping in mind others cancer battles helps keep me motivated. It always helps to be at the gym I am training at. Everyone at Haverhill boxing club has been incredibly welcoming and helpful. There is a real family atmosphere at the gym where if you are willing to put in the effort they are willing to spend the time working with you.What is your weekly routine? My weekly routine consists of 6 days of working out. Some days are for strength and conditioning and some days for boxing. Sunday’s tend to be my day where I let my body recoup.How has your diet changed since training began? 212lbs to 193lbs in under two months is a good indicator of how my diet has changed. I have pretty much cut out booze which has really helped me focus on making smarter decisions as to what I’m eating. Because of all the cardio that is involved in boxing I haven’t had to cut portion size down too much since I’m burning a lot of calories during workouts.Tell us about your first time sparring, different than expected? Sparring at the gym is probably my favorite part. It is definitely the area I need to grow the most in. My sparring partners have been great and their willingness to work with me has been incredibly helpful.What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far? Life. There are plenty of days when I don’t want to leave my family to head to the gym. Staying focused and motivated can be tough when after a long day all you want to do is stay home and hang.What does your family think of your participation? My immediate family, extended family, and friends have all been so supportive. I am blessed to have a family who will always support my choices regardless of how crazy it seems. With haymakers 4 hope it is for such a good cause that most people understand why as cancer touches so many. A big factor in participating in this was making sure my wife was okay with picking up the slack with my son (18 months old) during my crazy training schedule. She is 7 months pregnant now with our second and her due date is May 26th aka 9 days after fight night, Yikes! Fingers crossed the baby doesn’t try to show up to watch me fight on fight night.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 think the biggest surprises come when you look at who donates and why. A lot of friends and family currently have loved ones close to them or have lost love ones over the years due to cancer. I am surprised by the amount of people who feel endeared to this event. It really is a great feeling to be a part of something that impacts so many.Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training? My inspiration has always been if we raise enough money and give the brains of the world the resources necessary, that we can make cancer a thing of the past. I hope one day my kids generation won’t have to participate in events like this because there won’t be any cancer to battle.Donate to Tom or purchase a ticket to Rock 'N Rumble VIII on May 17th here!
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Thursday Jun 14, 2018
Rumble in the Rockies: Ben Queen
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Rumble in the Rockies in Denver on June 14th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether their mom is battling, 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 Ben Queen, fighting out of the Blunt Force Training.Where are you from? Denver, COWhere’d you go to college? University of Notre Dame Did you play any sports growing up? I played competitive sports as early on as I can remember, starting with soccer when I was about 5 years old. Growing up, I played baseball, soccer, basketball, and football. As I got older my focus shifted to soccer, which I played year-round through high school. In college, I rowed crew for a year and played some intramural sports, but for the most part my athletic career was over. However, I've never lost the craving for challenging myself and for tough competition.What do you do for work? I'm a CPA in Denver, and I work for a real estate private equity firm in fund accounting and investor relations. Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting? Boxing is something that has always impressed me; that someone could withstand such a beating, to absorb that much damage and not just stay standing, but to come back swinging and win the fight. I've never been in a fight, but seeing if I could take a hit, stay standing, and hit back has always been something that I've wondered, and this seemed like a fantastic opportunity to test my own limits and capabilities. Why on earth did you sign up to fight?? The first reason was that it sounded like a very interesting and unique way to fundraise money for a cause that I care about. After that, it appealed to me as a great opportunity to get in shape with a larger motivation than just doing it for myself, and as I mentioned before, it also seemed to be a unique opportunity to really test myself, to challenge my own limits, and to discover and develop my capabilities.You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure - where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you? The most important and personal way that cancer has affected my life was when my grandmother, Nana, died during her second bout with cancer when I was seven years old. That had a significant impact on my childhood, and remains one of the most vivid memories that I had from when I was that young.What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?) I've decided to give up alcohol while I'm training, which is challenging on nearly a daily basis, whether it not having a beer after work to unwind, to the social aspect of going to a happy hour after work or checking out a new beer at the local brewery; but it is also a daily reminder of my focus on training and the motivation for giving it up in the first place.When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have? My number one hobby has always been reading. I’ve been an avid reader since I was very young, and has been a life-long passion of mine. I also enjoy playing chess, soccer, volleyball, and softball (really most any team sport). Living in Denver provides a multitude of opportunities for getting up to the mountains for all sorts of outdoor activities, and I enjoy skiing, camping, hiking, etc. I’ve also recently started brewing beer with a friend, although I’m going to have to rely on his palate for evaluating our current batch!Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night? The people that will be most excited are probably my brothers (I have four younger brothers), but I think they’re just as excited (and hopefully a little bit more excited) to see me hit back and hopefully come out on top!Be sure to check out his fundraising page here and wish him luck! Best of luck, Ben!
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Thursday Jun 14, 2018
Boxer in Training: Andy Frawley
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 May 17th, 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. Andy Frawley has been putting in work at EverybodyFights and below you’ll hear about his first time sparring and more about his experience with Haymakers thus far.We’re halfway to fight night, how is your training coming along? Overall it's good but there are clearly good days and bad days.What is your weekly routine? Work out with my trainer Kevin Cobbs 5 days a week Try to run 3 or 4 days a week. Spar with the EBF team Tuesday and/or Friday. Spar with Chris Deviga on Saturday. Sunday rest or a light run.How has your diet changed since training began? I have cut out most carbs, eating lots of protein have lost about 15 lbs My biggest challenge has been eating enough to have the energy to do my workouts. Still figuring that out.Tell us about your first time sparring, different than expected? I had sparred with Kevin quite a bit last fall. Sparring with other ebf guys has been different as we are all learning at the same time. A little less predictable in some ways.What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far? Working through the days where I feel like I am not making progress from a conditioning or sparring standpoint. Trying to stay positive on those days is the hardest.What does your family think of your participation? They are very supportive and looking forward to the fight.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? The random people, some of whom I don't even know, who have reached out on social media to offer support.Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training? Not really although I continue to be surprised that my body can do more than I think.Donate to Andy or purchase a ticket to Rock 'N Rumble VIII on May 17th here!
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Thursday Jun 14, 2018
Rumble in the Rockies: Danny Maggard
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Rumble in the Rockies in Denver on June 14th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether their mom is battling, 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 Danny Maggard, fighting out of the Bodies by Perseverance.Where are you from? Hilton Head, South CarolinaWhere’d you go to college? Auburn University Did you play any sports growing up? Football, Basketball, BaseballWhat do you do for work? I manage merchandising & licensing for the world's premier kickboxing league, GLORY Kickboxing. Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting? Not at all. It looks like fun! Why on earth did you sign up to fight?? Through my work I'm always dealing with fighters, coaches, and trainers. I admire their commitment to a cause and see this as a great opportunity to give back while pushing my own boundaries.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've had multiple people in my life affected by cancer. The energy and total dedication required to fight back is daunting, and I'm inspired by how deep a person can dig to pull through and survive. Getting hit in the face a lot is the least I can do to raise money for a cure.What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?) Late night snacks :)When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have? BasketballWho do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night? My brother and friends are all really pumped. My mother is terrified.Be sure to check out his fundraising page here and wish him luck! Best of luck, Danny!
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Thursday Jun 14, 2018
Rumble in the Rockies: Candy Knisely
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Rumble in the Rockies in Denver on June 14th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether their mom is battling, 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 Candy Knisely, fighting out of Blunt Force Training.Where are you from? Canton, MIWhere’d you go to college? Michigan State University Did you play any sports growing up? Predominantly ballet and a couple years of competitive swimming and track. I was also a member of the 2016 Mile High Flag Football Championship team (I was injured for most of the season but it still counts).What do you do for work? I work in Procurement for a metal packaging company. Buy more cans! Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting? I started boxing as a form of stress relief and a way to mix up my workouts. I actually did think about fighting but kept psyching myself out. Why on earth did you sign up to fight?? I'm always up for a 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? Recently, someone very close to me was diagnosed with cancer. I want to fight and raise funds so that one day, no one else will have to hear the words "you have cancer".What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?) Candy (ironic, I know). Sugar is my kryptonite...my dad jokes that he should have named me Vegetable.When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have? Goofing off with my friends. I also love seeing movies and a good Netflix binge.Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night? So far every single person I've talked to about this. Really starting to question my friendships.Be sure to check out her fundraising page here and wish her luck! Best of luck, Candy!
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Thursday Jun 14, 2018
Rumble in the Rockies: Mike Brown
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Rumble in the Rockies in Denver on June 14th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether their mom is battling, 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 Mike Brown, fighting out of the ToS Boxing Gym.Where are you from? Midland, TXWhere’d you go to college? US Naval Academy Did you play any sports growing up? SwimmerWhat do you do for work? Entrepreneur Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting? I try to live by the quote "Do one thing everyday that scares you." As a competitive cyclist, let's just say that combat sports definitely qualify. After having to take a mandatory boxing class in college, it has always remained high up on the list as one of the hardest things I have ever done. While I have always sought out the toughest challenges as an endurance athlete (Ironman, ultra-endurance mountain bike racing, etc), signing up to fight is so far out of my comfort zone that I knew I had to do it.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 father is currently six months into an immunotherapy treatment for Stage IV kidney cancer. I also have three close friends all currently either undergoing treatment or who are recent survivors, so cancer has affected my life in a very direct way this year. I can't wait for all of these brave people to have a ring side seat as I fight to honor them.What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?) I am generally always in some phase of training for cycling - so that part is easy to adapt to. However, the upper body conditioning is incredibly tough for someone used to only training with their legs!When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have? As you may have gathered, cycling is a huge part of my life. I am a dedicated amateur road and mountain bike racer, so I can't wait to see gains from cross training manifest in my cycling this season.Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night? I have a whole cast of neighbors and friends and family who all can't wait to see this thing, probably because it is so out of character for my normal challenges.Be sure to check out his fundraising page here and wish him luck! Best of luck, Mike!
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