“Real men. Real punches. Real tough. Wimps need
not apply.”
OK, so the ad seems a bit extreme.
But marketing notwithstanding (there are some
radio spots too), we're assured that what's been billed as
the “Tough Man Contest” at Achilles Rink this weekend
is safe and wholesome sporting entertainment. For the
family, even.
Essentially, it's entry-level amateur boxing for
those aspiring to qualify for the Golden Gloves
competition, according to Val Belmonte, athletic director, who
negotiated the contract with an outside operator for the use
of the rink.
Competitors, who come from the local area, are required
to have full medical checkups, wear head gear and use
16-ounce “pillow” gloves, Belmonte said. They are
to box up to three one-minute rounds, less than
other competitions.
Promoters have been turning to venues at colleges
and universities since recent legislation banned such
events at arenas that serve alcohol, Belmonte noted. A check
with other colleges that have hosted the boxing
matches turned up no problems, he added.
So why an ad that asks, “Who is the Toughest Man
and Woman in Schenectady?” Simple, says Belmonte:
“They want to sell tickets.”
Tickets, at $20 each, are available at the Achilles
Rink box office.