Katherine’s fledgling Blue Eagle Muay Thai club flexed its wings in Darwin on Saturday night when three members had their christening in the ring at the Fury Fights.
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The first of these, Emily Starr, weighing 58kg, fought hard in a three-round modified Thai rules bout against a much more experienced girl from Western Australia but was unsuccessful in a split decision.
Taylor Ackerly, 23 years old and 60kg, also fought a girl from WA with a lot more experience and was unsuccessful, but according to trainer Dave Flood, her courage and determination in training and getting into the ring was an inspiration to the club and a credit to herself.
Jack Harris fought a very hard heavyweight fight against a Darwin fighter, displaying skill and determination, which resulted in a successful outing in his first fight in the ring.
Dave Flood said he was very happy with all the effort the three put in.
“I know they are all eager to shine again on their next outing in the Muay Thai ring. They are a credit to themselves and the club is extremely proud of their achievements.”
He said it was a great follow-on from the success the club’s first fighters Zak Houseman and Trey Eiermann had in Darwin earlier the year, and is a great progression for a combat martial art club that began in February 2015 with four members.
These days it has 126 members ranging in age from 5 to 55, and has moved in to new facilities at the North Force pavilion at the showgrounds.
“We offer something different,” Dave said. “People learn self-respect, discipline and fitness, and they learn to defend themselves.
“We get a lot of shy introverts that don’t fit the normal rugby league or AFL mould. This sport can bring the goodness inside them out.”
Dave operates with a philosophy of not having winners or losers.
“If people make a commitment to step into the ring, they’re winners,” he said. “I’m so happy with where they are.”
He said the supportive family atmosphere was recognised by the community, which had reciprocated with terrific sponsorship support for things such as equipment and matting, all subject to freight costs.
Others have sponsored children’s uniforms, and the club has received a $3000 Northern Territory sport and recreation grant.
Sally Gall
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
