Dozens signed up for the chance to take part in the fifth edition of Agency Wars. 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. 26.
Marketing is profiling the men and women who’ve shed blood, sweat and tears for Ronald McDonald House Toronto and NABS. Meet the fighters for the Red and Blue teams.
Cailyn Farquhar – Red Team
Job Title: Planning and Activation Specialist
Company: Rogers Digital Media
Nickname: Fast Fists
Why did you decide to take part?
I live a pretty healthy and active lifestyle, but I’ve never competed in anything like this before or pushed myself this hard. I wanted to see what I was capable of accomplishing. Boxing is both a physical and mental sport, and I have definitely been pushing myself in both areas through this journey.
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
No.
What do you like about it?
There’s something really empowering about being a woman, but also knowing how to throw a mean punch. You feel almost superhuman when you’re training and sparring in the ring. It’s just so raw. Just you, your opponent and your fists.
What’s the toughest part of training?
Not eating all of the desserts and savoury foods during Thanksgiving! Also, doing all of the speed bag rounds and punching through sore biceps and shoulders was very hard. I have to say that it has all been worth it though! I never used to be able to do more than five push ups and now I’m doing them like a champ!
What have you picked for your walkout song? And how is it representative of who you are as a fighter?
I haven’t decided on my official fight song yet, but I’ve been working out to a lot of Jay Z, Kanye West and DMX’s Ain’t No Sunshine (Anderson Silva’s fight song)!
What message do you have for your opponent?
We’re going to hate each other for six minutes and I’m going to be ruthless, but she’s a cool girl so we’ll probably just laugh it off and have a drink afterwards.
Jessica Biagioni – blue team
Job Title: Assistant Planner
Agency: MEC Global
Nickname: The Menace
Why did you decide to take part?
I’ve always loved playing any kind of sport so when I heard there was an opportunity to become an amateur boxer for a charity event I was eager to try out – when else would I ever get an opportunity like this?
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
There was that one time at the Brunny in high school… Just kidding!
What do you like about it?
Everything – overall it’s such an awesome experience. I’m getting to train with passionate coaches, be on a team with great people and support two worthy causes – what’s not to like!
What’s the toughest part of training?
Definitely the mental part of it – I never would have thought it would play such a big role in preparing for the fight.
What have you picked for your walkout song? And how is it representative of who you are as a fighter?
I’ll be narrowing down my final pick in the next few days – I want to make sure I pick the right song to pump me up before I step into the ring.
What message do you have for your opponent?
For about six minutes on November 26th we are not going to like each other – I apologize in advance for the damage. But after that let’s leave it in the ring and do shots – lots of shots!
