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.
Heidi Giggie – Red Team
Opponent: Keri Zierler
Job Title: Senior digital manager
Agency: Mindshare
Nickname: HG$
Why did you decide to take part?
Last year, a few of my friends participated, which initially sparked my interest. I also love a challenge, both mental and physical, and I couldn’t think of a better opportunity to participate in an event that provided both, all in support of an amazing cause.
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
Contrary to popular belief, I have never been in a fight before. That being said, there is always a first time for everything and I’m ready for it!
What’s the toughest part of training been?
Conditioning your mind and body to be the best you can possibly be. How bad you want something is how hard you are willing to work for it, I mean no one is a fan of getting up at 5 a.m. to do pushups followed by another few hours after work. Training has taught me that self-discipline, no matter how difficult it may be, is 100% possible regardless of the situation. Oh, and then there is getting punched in the face, let’s not forget that part, ha ha.
What do you like about it?
One of my favorite parts has definitely been getting to know the team. You become like a family because you spend so much time together, and we can all relate to how we’re all feeling. Watching everyone, myself included, change their life for the better has been amazing and an experience I will never forget. Also, anyone who knows me knows my obsession with nail polish, so I would like to add that on top of all of the stress I have made it through this process without even breaking a nail. That makes me pretty happy.
What message do you have for your opponent?
Two words Keri, “The Street Fighter”- tiger uppercut.
Keri Zierler – Blue Team
Job Title: Copywriter
Agency: John St.
Nickname: The Street Fighter
Why did you decide to take part?
It sounded like a once in a lifetime opportunity to get in incredible shape, and do something really fun with other people in the industry. And Ronald McDonald House is a great cause to support.
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
Like every kid in 1984, I signed up for karate after watching The Karate Kid, but alas, I didn’t stick with it long enough to master the crane kick.
What’s the toughest part of training been?
The diet definitely took some getting used to, but I think the mental aspect of boxing was much tougher to wrap my head around than I expected. There are so many things you have to be conscious of and thinking about every second you’re in the ring. I have a whole new respect for boxers in that regard.
What do you like about it?
I like the mental game – trying to outsmart or surprise my opponent and anticipate what they’re going to do next.
What message do you have for your opponent?
Good luck! Win or lose, everyone has worked so hard for this. As excited as I am to take her on in the ring, I’m even more excited to raise a pint with her afterwards.
Learn more about Agency Wars IV, its boxers, coaches and training program at the event’s Facebook page.
