Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Kelly.
Julie, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Co-founder Andrew Myerson and I met in 2008 at an NYC boxing gym. Both being MA transplants, we became fast friends at the gym. At the time, I was participating and fundraising in endurance events with Team in Training, supporting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. As a cancer survivor, I wanted to do my part to support cancer research. I found out 3 things during training for 3 marathons and 2 triathlons; I loved fundraising and feeling like I was giving back because I was healthy and able-bodied, I absolutely LOVED boxing and I absolutely HATED endurance events.
Andrew and I thought if people can raise money for a cause they are passionate about supporting through races and walks, could we do it through a sport WE were passionate about? Boxing. Haymakers for Hope was founded in 201o, and the first event was held in Boston, June 2011. Since then, we have held 18 events in 2 cities, Boston and New York, and set to launch in Denver, June 2018.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
As with any new venture, we have certainly faced some challenges to get where we are now as an organization. But with the kind of support we received from the local boxing communities since year one, the continued interest from passionate, first-time amateur boxers and their supporters, we have been able to create an impactful, once in a lifetime experience that gives everyday people the opportunity to KO cancer.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Haymakers for Hope – what should we know?
Haymakers for Hope offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to train as an amateur boxer and to step in the ring for a sanctioned bout against a terrible disease that we are all too familiar with. As an organization, we’re proud of the attention and support we are able to provide to each of the first time amateur boxers, during their 4 month training program. It takes a lot of courage to step in the ring, so it is our job to make it as special and memorable as possible.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Much of the success of Haymakers for Hope can be credited to the local gyms in Boston and New York who took a chance on us, and believed in us when we still weren’t even sure what we were doing. The boxing gyms continue to welcome new fighters into their gyms and communities and prepare them for fight night. Also, the brave men and women who take on the challenge of training and fundraising. Without both trainers and fighters, there would be no Haymakers.
Image Credit:
Jenny Maloney, Person and Killian, Rob Maloof
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