
Fighters get a shot in the ring
THERE were plenty of exciting fights at Battle at the Beach 4 recently, but girls Tyla Howles and Terry Simpson put on an impressive show for the 600 strong crowd.
Rhino Mixed Martial Arts co-owner and trainer Holly O'Connor along with her husband Nathan organised the fourth event held on October 17 at the Yeppoon gym.
Holly said the event gave local fighters from all over the Capricorn Coast and surrounds the opportunity to gain experience in the ring, while also raising money for charity.
"This year we raised $3500 for Rockhampton Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation and $400 went to the Capricorn Medieval Guild," Holly said last week.
"We had a few crews from out-of-town as well fighter Terry Simpson from Brisbane and Ben West from Casino."
"We also organise the Chilli Festival and the Zombie Run events here so putting things like this on for the community is something important to us. We've got two young kids and we want to see more events held for local families to enjoy."
The Fight of the Night in Rhino's brand new ring went to the female kickboxing fight with Terry defeating Tyla.
The main event was a 23 second knock out with both guys having a decent amount of experience with six fights each under their belts. Boxing, kick boxing, jui jitsu and wrestling were just a few of the sports that fell under the martial arts umbrella, which Holly and Nathan both train in at their Yeppoon and Rockhampton gyms.
"We have tiny little kids to housewives," she said.
"Martial arts is for everyone, it's not just for competition, you can also do it for self-defence."
Battle at the Beach 5 has been planned to be held in April 2016.
MORE INFO
For anyone interested in training with Rhino Mixed Martial Arts phone 0423 892 497 or find them on Facebook.
RESULTS
Ian Webster defeated Luke Lieske on points in boxing
Jean Hancock def Ben West on points in boxing
Steven Finn def Lachlan Watson TKO in Muau Thai
Torin O'Brien def Isaac Martin TKO in Muay Thai
Jordan Saunders def Jacob Murphy on points in Muay Thai
Terry Simpson def Tyla Howles on points in Muay Thai
Zach Byrnes def Joshua McConarchy on points in MMA
Main Event: Sam Walker def Zach Noone KO in MMA