Boxing: Contractors ready to rock

Andrew Currie (left), Downers, and Warren Gill, Fulton Hogan, are fighting each other this Saturday in the Downer v Fulton Hogan charity event. Photo/John Stone

Whangarei contractors are swapping the hard hats for boxing gloves as they battle it out for charity this weekend.

Following on from a successful fundraiser last year, Downers and Fulton Hogan will square off in the ring, this time raising money for Choose Life Suicide Prevention.

Fulton Hogan Northland regional manager Keith Cocking said it was a no-brainer to stay involved for a second year, while confirming it to be an annual event.

"It's a good combination, really," Cocking said. "It's good for our guys to get fit and it's also a good evening with the wider team coming along and supporting ... and vice-versa to raise some money for a worthwhile charity.

"Last year we fought for Hospice, and at the time one of our guys was battling cancer so it was good to be able to support that charity, and this year we're going with Choose Life - it's a pretty powerful message they're fighting for.

"I've got young kids growing up and you do the best by them, but your heart goes out to the ones who have their kids go."

Cocking added that the event had really grown legs since the idea was first floated over a few beers.

For the past 12 weeks, however, it has been Roundhouse Kickboxing Studio instructor Simon Haenga's job to keep Fulton Hogan's workers' beer intake under control while putting them through their paces.

"We train them bloody hard, and I know Timmy [Bowman from Whangarei Boxing Gym, who is training Downers fighters] does as well," he said.

"Some are really, really fit, but some aren't and, across the board, they're all overweight and puffed. What we try and do is turn them into our sport but also change their lifestyle.

"Watching these guys transform their lives is satisfying. [With] a pie and coke being a typical smoko meal we try look at the whole picture. We don't just thrash them, we try and teach them some nutrition as well."

The Contractors for Charity Boxing Fight Night takes place at ASB Stadium on Saturday, doors open at 5.30pm with the first fight scheduled for 6pm. Tickets cost $30 if purchased before the night, or $35 at the door. Student tickets, between 12-17 years, are also available for $20 or $25 on the night.