Racing staff boxers take to the ring at York
Racing’s community came together at York racecourse on Saturday 5th November to cheer on 18 of their friends and colleagues in this year’s William Hill Racing Staff Boxing Night, in aid of Racing Welfare.
After taking part in a life-changing 8-week training programme, managed by Derby-based Ultra White Collar Boxing (UWCB), the participants were fairly matched up to take on their rival for three two-minute bouts on the night. Everyone that took part in the challenge currently works in the horseracing industry.
The evening was heralded a great success, attracting 370 guests and raising more than £10,500 for Racing Welfare. Funds were raised through ticket sales, a raffle and punch bag competition on the night and from the boxers own fundraising.
Jockey Cam Hardie, winner of the last bout of the evening, said: “It was a privilege to represent the jockeys in the William Hill UWCB event, such a worthwhile cause and delighted to have raised so much money for Racing Welfare. It was the icing on the cake to win but you can’t train hard enough for it.”
The results of all bouts are listed below:
1 Ryan Timby vs Jay Kozaczek (DRAW)
2 Ali Clarke vs Helena Crane (DRAW)
3 Jamie Atkins vs Fin Lorimer (WINNER: Jamie Atkins)
4 Jason Pugh vs Paul Godfrey (WINNER: Jason Pugh)
5 Tom Mannion vs Toby Pedley (WINNER: Tom Mannion)
6 Andy Smith vs George Illingworth (WINNER: Andy Smith)
7 Joel Parkinson vs James Lawson (WINNER: Joel Parkinson)
8 Gerasimos Minetos vs Matt Argo (WINNER: Matt Argo)
8 Sam Taylor vs Laura Firth (WINNER: Laura Firth)
10 Ger O’Neill vs Kevin Skelton (WINNER: Kevin Skelton)
11 Cam Hardie vs Nath McCann (WINNER: Cam Hardie)