Fighting for a Cause: Ray Tomsick’s Journey with Haymakers for Hope
In the heart of Colorado, the Rumble in the Rockies is about to witness a fight that’s more than just a bout in the ring. Ray Tomcik, a dedicated community member from Pueblo, Colorado, is stepping into the ring for Haymakers for Hope, a charity event aimed at literally fighting for a cure for cancer. On the “I Am From Denver” podcast, Ray shared his inspiring journey, revealing the motivations and rigorous training behind his upcoming fight.
Ray, weighing in at 203 pounds, has been on a transformative journey. Initially weighing 223 pounds when he signed up, he’s shed 20 pounds to reach his fighting weight. This commitment reflects not only his dedication to the fight but also his determination to make a meaningful impact through this event.
Training with a Purpose
Ray’s journey began in January, thanks to his mutual friend with Jake Salazar, Chase Campbell, who introduced him to the boxing gym. Despite having never stepped into a boxing gym before, Ray embraced the challenge. His first day at the gym was a baptism by fire, pushing sleds, doing dips, and pull-ups—activities he hadn’t done in years. This rigorous training regimen was all in preparation for the three-round, two-minute fight that awaits him.
One of the standout moments from Ray’s training was sparring with seasoned boxers. He recounts an early session where his sparring partner, wearing a 20-pound weight vest, effortlessly tagged him while offering guidance. These experiences have instilled a deep respect for the sport and the immense dedication required to excel in it.
A Personal Battle
Ray’s fight is deeply personal. During the interview, he held up a picture of his mother, who passed away about a month into his training. While she did not have cancer, she battled multiple sclerosis (MS) for over a decade, confined to a wheelchair. Ray’s decision to participate in Haymakers for Hope is a tribute to her strength and resilience. He shared a poignant reflection on spending more time on a bar stool than with his mother, who would have given anything to walk across the room to hug her family. This realization fueled his determination to channel his energy into something profoundly impactful.
A Community United
Ray is not alone in this fight. He is one of six participants from his gym, TOS (Touch of Sleep), who are fighting in the event. This collective effort has fostered a strong sense of camaraderie and support among the fighters. Each participant is a first-time amateur boxer, ensuring a level playing field and a shared journey of growth and discovery.
Ray’s story is a testament to the power of community and personal transformation. His dedication to training, coupled with his deep personal motivations, embodies the spirit of Haymakers for Hope. As he steps into the ring on June 13th at the Mission Ballroom, he carries with him not just the hope of knocking out cancer but also the legacy of his mother’s strength and the support of a community united in purpose.
Ray Tomsick’s fight is a reminder that sometimes, the battles we choose to fight extend beyond ourselves, touching the lives of many and making a lasting impact.
How to get tickets or make a donation
