BBC News, Peterborough
Teresa ColmanA 53-year-old teacher has raised almost £2,000 for charity after swapping the classroom for the boxing ring.
Teresa Colman, a lecturer at Peterborough College, took part in two Ultra White Collar Boxing (UWCB) fights at the city’s Planet Ice to support Cancer Research UK and local charity Boxing Futures.
Ms Colman said she was inspired to lace up her gloves after a close friend was diagnosed with stage four stomach cancer.
“I felt helpless and wanted to do something,” she said.
Initially hesitant, she worried she was “too old”, but soon discovered a new passion.
“At 53, I did not think I could have done it. But I am fitter and have better mental health. I always like to push myself,” she said.
After signing up in April 2024, she had eight weeks of free professional training at gyms including Boxing Futures in Yaxley.
She went on to compete in two bouts at Planet Ice in Bretton — winning both matches after three 90-second rounds in each contest.
Her efforts raised £1,200 for Cancer Research UK in her first bout, and a further £750 for Boxing Futures in her second bout this summer.
“For my first match I was nervous, it was a whirlwind. For the second, I was more relaxed and enjoyed it even more. It was hard, but worth it – an incredible experience,” said Ms Colman, who is from Fletton.
Teresa ColmanMs Colman said the sport had also had a “significant positive impact” on her physical and mental health, and she hoped to continue.
She was inspired by the work of Boxing Futures, which supports young people through mentoring and physical activity.
“Working with young people myself, this struck a chord with me. After my first match I decided I wanted to raise money for them to support their great work,” she said.
Her journey has inspired others — one of her female students has since joined Boxing Futures after hearing about her experience.
“I felt delighted about that,” Ms Colman said. “I like doing things that women in their 50s are not usually expected to do.”