Local kickboxers sign up for Race for Life (From Watford Observer)

Local kickboxers sign up for Race for Life

9:49am Wednesday 15th April 2009 in Search Module By Filip Hnizdo

A team of local female kickboxers will swap punching bags and gym halls for the peaceful surroundings of Cassiobury Park to raise money for cancer research in this year's Race for Life.

Seven women from in and around Watford will temporarily leave behind the men at the Shaolin Boxing Club for the charity event adding to a string of community events already under their belts.

Ani Meehan, Jane Boyle, Katy Last, April Thomas, Claire Benson, Lea Court and Katarzyna Merciel will run or walk through the park on June 28 with a goal of raising more than £1,000 for the Cancer Research UK.

Taking a break from an evening session at Aldenham School, April Thomas said: “We all know someone who has had cancer I've seen it in family members, aunties and a college recently. It's a very good cause and it's another way to bring the group together outside of classes. Everyone's interested in doing it as it's a good charity so they have just kept joining.”

She said more women were likely to sign up to the cause, particularly after they allowed wives and girlfriends of members to join their informal team.

Another member, Claire, who is running with her daughter Brianna, said: “I believe it's quite likely that we'll be able to raise enough for a £1,000. We're hoping to do a picnic afterwards as a lot of us have families and not everyone can just go to the pub. As the men can't take part I'm hoping they can come cheer us on.”

The kickboxing club was started to bring together people of all backgrounds, ages and levels of physical ability. It has recently performed demonstrations at Hertfordshire University in Hatfield and The Harlequin Shopping Centre for events including a men's health awareness week.

Their trainer, Kingsley Morgan, was recently awarded a trainer of the year award by the Hertfordshire Sports Partnership.

For more information about sponsoring the team or for general information about the club, telephone 07904079147 or visit www.shaolinboxing.co.uk