Fierce As Female’s first two events took place this past weekend in Salthill, Galway, as part of the European Week of Sports, in association with Galway Sports Partnership, supported by GMIT and NUIG, and were a resounding success.
The first event, FierceAF: Boxing Edition was the largest women boxing class in Ireland, attended by over 50 women and girls, where they tried out different boxing skills and techniques. With multiple coaches on hand from 4 different boxing clubs, (Tobar Pheadair, Oughterard, Monivea and NUIG) everything was covered from foot movement and punching to how points are scored. Tactical information was explained during the five exhibition matches which showed off the incredible skills and talents of our local World, European, and National champions in this sport. The event allowed for participants to see and experience the sport in a safe and supportive environment, with some beginners even stepping into the ring with champions to try out some sparring. “We were delighted with the event,” says Co-Founder MJ Jacob. “Fierce As Female is all about empowering women and today we had a room full of powerful women having fun and being active. It’s exactly what we set out to do.”
The second event, FierceAF: Beach Edition, brought Galwegians down to the beach to try out a variety of different activities – There was Yoga by the water (Yoga Roots), punching bags and breaking boards with Taekwondo (NUIG TKD), a lot of self defence with Tai Chi (Chen Tai Chi Ireland) and an introduction to playing Volleyball (Galway Volleyball Club). The attendees braved the wild weather, and came away with a new understanding of the different activities. With people having come from as far as Athenry and Athlone, both events were a great achievement and promotion for Galway and what it has to offer women in terms of being active.
Fierce As Female is a grassroots social enterprise with the aim of getting more women moving by showcasing the many activities available to them.