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 9th, 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. Megan Walsh has been putting in work at Back Bay Boxing 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?
Great! It has been amazing to see how much I have improved over the past two months. It has not been easy and there have been a lot of literal blood, sweat, and tears throughout training and being able to see the improvement makes it all worth it.
What is your weekly routine?
I currently train 5 days a week.
How has your diet changed since training began?
I surprisingly eat more than before. With all of the training I have been doing I come home ravenous. In the beginning it was hard to say no to the foods that I love, but now I crave the foods my body needs to fuel.
Tell us about your first-time sparring, different than expected?
It was the moment I said to myself, 'What have I gotten myself into?'. I went into the ring and gave it everything I had with the mind set, if you don't want to get punched in the face, you have to swing. When I came out of the ring, everybody was very surprised I gave it all I had and didn't mostly back away from my opponent. That gave me the confidence I was doing something right and take that attitude into the ring every time.
What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far?
Showing up on days I really don't want to. I have gone through two personally hard issues in the time I have been training, and there were days that it was really hard to get into the gym. I still got up and went everyday I needed to and found that the gym has been my salvation. Going to the gym and punching things takes out all my frustrations about 'Why is this happening to me?' 'Life isn't fair'. By the end of class I am exhausted and have left everything I have in the gym. I also have an amazing family at the gym who always greet me with huge smiles and encouraging words. I truly don't think I could have gotten through these situations the way I have without boxing.
What does your family think of your participation?
My mom was not happy at first, but now all of my family members are on board and can't wait for fight night. After being matched at my gym, I found out that my cousin had a membership at the same gym. It has been awesome to have her there with me and even more family close by to support me.
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?
One of my fellow Belles Allison Picott. It wasn't until I read her bio did I realize she was a survivor. It was inspiring to see that at her young age of 49, she has kicked cancer's ass and now wants to fight again on her own terms. She has taken her life into her own hands and now is going to kick cancer's ass for good!
Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training?
Partially. I still fight for my grandparents I lost from cancer, but now I fight for me. Personally, over the last two months, have not been easy for me. Through training, I have shown myself that I am strong and can do whatever I put my mind to. Life my knock you down over and over but you get up get back in the ring and keep showing life who is boss.
Donate to Megan or purchase a ticket to Belles of the Brawl on October 9th here!