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!