Ring 10 NY – 2012
Last summer I had the pleasure of attending Ring 10 NY’s inaugural boxing charity event, and was later inspired to write about the organization’s commitment to former boxers in need of assistance.
This past August 18th, Ring 10 NY, held its second annual event, and it did not disappoint. The ambience of Marina Del Rey in Throgs Neck, NY, combined with the abundance of food and drink, made it for an event to remember. The guests and honorees were icing on the proverbial cake. Among those in attendance were 2012’s award recipients, former referee, Joe Santarpia, and former boxer, promoter, manager, and educator, Ed Gersch. I had read Mr. Gersch’s book, A Strong Collected Spirit – A Fighter’s Memoir; an in-depth account of the former boxer’s life, in and out of the ring. I was honored to meet him in person, and tell him how much I enjoyed reading his book. The very coherent and active 92 year-old, thanked me for the praise, and was kind enough to sign my boxing glove.
The other guests in attendance were former boxers and champions, Donny Lalonde, Doug Dewitt, Michael “The Silk” Olajide, Livingstone Bramble, Aaron “Superman” Davis, Iran “The Blade” Barkley, James “Bonecrusher” Smith, Dewey Bozella, Hall of Famer, Carlos Ortiz, and actor, Holt McCallany. The latter’s canceled TV show, “Lights Out,” was hugely disappointing for fight fans. “Lights Out” focused on the life of comeback king and fictional character, Patrick “Lights” Leary. Hosting the event was HBO’s Harold Lederman, and Ring 10’s president, Matt Farrago. It was nice seeing old friends and making new ones as well. But, as enjoyable as it is to rub elbows with these former champions and celebrities, everyone in attendance did not lose sight of their reason for being in Throgs Neck. Extracting a quote from Ring 10’s website states it best:
“We are a not-for-profit foundation, and our purpose and goal is simple: To see to the welfare of boxers who have fallen on hard times. We are dedicated to helping each of our fallen fighters as long as there is a need.”
“Ring 10 Veterans Boxing Foundation of New York originated from the idea of helping all those who have found themselves at a disadvantage. Since our organization was established, we have endeavored to provide help and assistance where the need is greatest, and will continue to do so as long as we are able.”
The cause to aid those who have put their bodies and minds in peril for entertainment’s sake is a charity I firmly believe in. Unlike other sports that protect their athletes, boxing, is a sport rife with exploitation. As chronicled in last year’s article on Ring 10, these warriors are often too proud to ask for help. Fortunately, Ring 10 is there to render it.
As a charitable man, it gives me great satisfaction to continue to support Ring 10, and to acquaint others with its mission. To learn more about Ring 10 NY and their upcoming events, please visit their website, at www.ring10ny.com.