Backstoppers, the organization founded in the 50s to provide resources for families of first responders lost in the line of duty, has postponed its popular Guns'N'Hoses benefit due to Ferguson unrest. On their site:
The Guns 'N Hoses Boxing Association has postponed the 28th annual Guns 'N Hoses boxing event scheduled for Nov. 26. The organization plans to reschedule the event at a later date in 2015.
“Our focus is honoring the lives of those who have died during the line of duty and providing support for their families,” said Ron Battelle, Executive Director of The BackStoppers and Guns 'N Hoses board member. “To hold the event at this time could serve as a distraction – and a disservice – to those fallen heroes and their families who deserve our full attention and support.”
The decision to postpone the event was made by the organization after much thought and deliberation. It took into account the recently increased hours of first responders who participate in and attend the event, and the 66 families and 64 children The BackStoppers currently support.
“It wasn't an easy decision but, out of respect for all those involved, we think it is the right thing to do,” said Battelle.
The 2014 Guns 'N Hoses event was scheduled to take place Nov. 26 at Scottrade Center. The event was to feature 15 three-round bouts of boxing and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) between first responders from Missouri and Illinois. Prior to the opening bell, Guns 'N Hoses honors the firefighters and police officers who have lost their lives with boxing's traditional Ten Count.
“We are already evaluating new event dates and will notify the public once a date has been confirmed,” said event organizer Steve Holley, secretary, St. Louis Guns 'N Hoses Boxing Association.
On a personal note, my father-in-law, who, when not preaching, moonlights as a cutman on the local boxing circuit, and my newphew, a Golden Gloves champ, have long participated in this event.
