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 Katherine Erbeznik, fighting out of Church Street Boxing Gym in New York City.
Where are you from?
Sacramento, CA
Where did you go to college?
U.C. Berkeley
Did you play any sports growing up?
Softball (badly) and ran track (also badly)
What do you do for work?
Lawyer
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
For me, boxing is more than just a sport. It is a physchological test. It combines intimacy, fear, nerves, strength, perseverance all into one activity. It excites me!
Why on earth did you sign up to fight?
This is a dream of mine. When I started boxing I said “I want one amateur fight. Just one.” And here I am!
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 has affected all of us. I lost my Aunt Mary to breast cancer in 2013. My Uncle Richard to brain cancer before that. It’s a frightful disease that doesn’t know race, creed, socioeconomic class, gender. We are all united in needing to find better treatments or, better yet, a cure!
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training?
Fear. Oh, and sugar.
When you’re not throwing punches and training - what other hobbies/interests do you have?
I do CrossFit and I love hiking. I spend time with my two little rescue chihuahua mutts. I also love reading self help books - I’m a work in progress!
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
Hey, I’m a nice person. No one wants to see me get punched in the face! But I think my boxing coach will be so happy to see my take getting punched in the face with something resembling grace . . . and maybe an attempt at defense!
Be sure to check out her fundraising page and wish her luck! Best of luck, Katherine!