Agency Wars, the industry’s annual boxing fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House Toronto and NABS, is back.
Dozens signed up for the chance to take part in the fourth edition of the big night of fights. Over several weeks, they tested their mettle against professional coaches, strict trainers and their own physical limitations. Twenty four of those brave souls have been chosen to enter the ring at Toronto’s Arcadian Court on Nov. 27.
Marketing is profiling the men and women who’ve shed blood, sweat and tears to help out two charities. What makes someone step in the ring? Meet the fighters for the Red and Blue teams to find out.
Olivia Chow – Red Team
Job Title: Art Director
Agency: Squareknot
Nickname: YOU PAY NOW
Why did you decide to take part?
I initially saw Agency Wars as something I’d never be able to do. That changed when I started boxing earlier this year and it became a matter of when, not if, I’d have my first amateur bout. So why not start with a bang?
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
Not anything to this amount of dedication and commitment. I used to, however, beat up all of the boys in grade school though. What can I say? The smaller we are, the angrier we get.
What’s the toughest part of training been?
Juggling a busy work schedule while fitting in as much training as possible. Oh, and having patience. It takes time and practice, but it all comes together in the end.
What do you like about it?
I respect the sport so much for the fact that it’s just as much of a mental game as it is physical. Don’t get me wrong though, I love punching people. As for this experience as a whole, I’ve made some fantastic and hilarious friendships from both teams.
What message do you have for your opponent?
Your fortune ain’t looking so good, chump.
Amanda Li – Blue Team
Job Title: Media Coordinator
Agency: Shaw Media
Nickname: The Azn Zensation
Why did you decide to take part?
Right from the moment I heard about the concept of Agency Wars I had to go for it. I’ve always liked fighting since I was a little tomboy kid, but was never given the opportunity because my parents thought I was too violent. Now I have the chance!
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
A little recreational tae kwon do and kickboxing.
What’s the toughest part of training been?
The diet! I love to eat, so eating clean and not being able to have what I crave has the biggest challenge for me. I can take physical pain, no problem. Punches to the face? Bring it on. But put a delicious plate of butter chicken and naan in front of me when I can’t eat it? That’s just pure torture.
What do you like about it?
This experience has been incredible. I’m going to be really sad when it’s over because I’ve loved every minute of it. The support I’ve received from friends, family, coworkers and people in the industry has been overwhelming. The fact that I get to do it with such fantastic teammates has made it even better.
What message do you have for your opponent?
We’ll share some dim sum when this is over. But I’m sorry, I can’t share the glory in my victory after we’re done in the ring.
Learn more about Agency Wars IV, its boxers, coaches and training program at the event’s Facebook page.
