Ladies inspired to fight the good fight

It is difficult to pinpoint the reasons for the recent rise in popularity in women’s boxing, perhaps mixed martial arts fighters such as Rhonda Rousey have brought combat sports with women into the “mainstream”.

Or, maybe an increased number of female promoters, trainers and managers have enabled easier access to the sport.

Regardless of the reasons, women’s boxing is here to stay.

You disagree? Well, tell the ladies from Geraldton Boxing Centre that they have no place in the boxing ring.

Be my guest, but I would suggest getting your headgear and pads on before you do.

Believe me, I have sparred with them and they can hit hard.

So why do women box? Well, I believe it’s for the same reasons men choose to step into the ring.

For Denise Langham, the reason was quite simple.

“I love to push myself and see other women believe in themselves and what they can achieve ... stepping into the ring lifted me to another level of self belief,” she said.

Haylee Wansbrough has fought three times since training with Paul Barratt at Geraldton Boxing Centre, two of those bouts being in Perth.

“I box to fight. The moment I started boxing I wanted to fight,” she said.

“The rawness of the sport is what attracts me. It strips away all the layers you accumulate over time and exposes your true self.”

Meg Iaria — who intends to fight soon — has a very direct attitude towards her beloved sport.

“It has given me not only self-confidence, but mental clarity and it always helps to hit stuff when you’re feeling frustrated,” she said.

Remind me never to frustrate you, Meg.

It’s difficult not to be proud and in awe of these ladies. They carry on a fine tradition, bucking stereotypes of the “fairer sex”, and in my opinion, are fine role models for the next generation of our young ladies.

Go for it ladies . . . and keep fighting like a girl!