THE Limerick Post’s reporter Colum Coomey is taking part in Limerick’s Charity Boxing event in July. Here is installment one of his diary.
Saturday April 16: The Q&A
All of the fighters came together at Corpus Christi boxing club to get packs, which included our gloves. We had a Q&A with Corpus Christi clubman and UK Athletics strength and conditioning coach, Johnny Kiely. There was a lot of nervous tension in the room and a general feeling of entering the unknown. Johnny expertly pointed out: “I can tell by the look on some of your faces that you haven’t thought this through”.
He spoke about the pain we are going to experience over tour 12 weeks of training, but convinced us it will be rewarding.
We also got advice on what to eat and how to look after ourselves while training. “Don’t push yourself too hard or you’ll be burned out half way through or get injured. Don’t be too soft on yourself, you have to find an in between”. Johnny’s parting mantra: “Everyone you meet will want to give you advice, at home or in the gym. Don’t listen to them, listen to your coaches (Declan and Jeff Fitzgerald)”.
I was at home for less than five minutes when I was bombarded with advice from my friend Ross. “Show me your punch, show me your stance! Look, do you want to win this or not?! I’ve a friend who will show you what to do. It will give you the edge”. I already have my own crazy Dicky Ecklund-like harebrained coach.
Monday April 18: The First Session
I haven’t taken part in any sporting activity for about two years, so I was expecting a world of hurt. After warming-up, when everyone was more, we slowly went through boxing technique 101. Starting with one hand moving to the other and eventually introducing your feet. Now that we had some grasp of shadow boxing, we moved onto the bags to test our new moves. While on the bags Jeff and Declan paced the gym and pointing us in the right direction. After working on the bags, I had a chance to work the pads in the ring with Corpus Christi man Jamie.
“Don’t hesitate! Keep your chin down and your elbows tucked in. Now one-two!” At the time, I thought ‘this is great fun’, I wonder if I’ll be as positive in six weeks time. We finished the session, with an extended period of stretching. It seemed to do the trick as the aches and pains were minimal on Tuesday morning. Now that’s one session down, just 34 to go.
Limerick Charity boxing will take place in the Radisson Blu Hotel on July 10. All proceeds will go to local charities, including Cycle For Sick Children, TLC4CF, Redhill School for Autistic Children and Limerick Rape Crisis Centre. The event is being organised by Jeff and Declan Fitzgerald of Corpus Christi boxing club and Gary Kirwan. Places are still available for those interested.
