Emily Harney: How Boxing Changed My Life

As part of our 2021 Year of Boxing,  we held  an essay contest, and its subject was “How Boxing Changed My Life.”

We are proud to include the inspirational, winning essay, written by photographer Emily Harney, and as an added treat, share some of her photos.

Here is an appetizer of the full essay, which  can be download on   PDF.

How Boxing Changed My Life

By Emily Harney

I did not grow up watching boxing. My first recollection of the sport was when I was young and saw what looked to be Superman versus a bald black man on my uncle’s TV. I later found out that Superman was Peter McNeely and the other man was Mike Tyson. I wondered why my dad or grandfather did not watch boxing or even talk about it.  They were both well versed in other sports and those who participated. I recently asked my parents why we never watched boxing as kids. They did not have an answer except that they were not big fans of the sport.

 I took them to their first fight; they have attended many to date.  Today my understanding and knowledge of the business come from my direct observation and my experience working with those who participate: the fighters, managers, promoters, trainers, ringside physicians, gaming commissioners, and media colleagues.

To read the full essay download the PDF

[pdf-embedder url=”https://wbcboxing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/Harney_How-Boxing-Changed-My-Life.pdf” title=”Harney_How Boxing Changed My Life”]