Boxing club’s ‘Push-ups for Parkinson’s’ target smashed
Push-Ups for Parkinson’s smashed a target of 1,000 press ups, with about 100 people getting involved to complete 4,630 during a two-hour event on Saturday.
The charity fundraiser at the Amalgamated Boxing Club in St Martin’s took place as part of a nationwide event.
Chris Betley, a director of Parkinson’s Guernsey, thanked the club and everyone who got involved on the day.
‘Today is not just about raising funds, it is raising awareness,’ he said.
‘All health professionals will tell you how important exercise is to help patients with Parkinson’s, and boxing is seen as one of the best all-round exercises.’
Mr Betley is one of a number of islanders with Parkinson’s who take part in regular sessions at the club to help alleviate their symptoms.
‘That’s on the pads with gloves and even stepping in to the ring for a little gentle sparring,’ he said.
‘It’s a really mixed group of age and mobility. I can only praise and thank the club and especially Mandy Hobart for reaching out to us.’
Boxing development officer Mandy Hobart’s parents both had Parkinson’s and she really wanted to get involved with the charity and the national fundraiser.
‘It has been a fantastic event, with people popping in and out all morning,’ she said.
‘To quadruple our original target is just amazing.’
Pushups4parkinson’s began as a collaboration between Parkinson’s UK and UK boxing clubs two years ago but the weekend was the first time it has been put on in Guernsey. Those taking part attempted as many press-ups as they could, whether on the floor, their knees, or up against a wall, during two-minute windows throughout the morning.
Amalgamated Boxing Club chairman Adam Cole managed 91 push-ups, to top the rankings of those who took part.
‘I’m a bit exhausted now,’ he said.
‘It has been such a great turnout and we are delighted that so many people who are part of the club have come down and supported it.’
You can donate to the national campaign here.
