Rye martial arts club boosted by lottery grant

Philip Eaton and Sarah Hallworth received funds to set up Siam Boxing Camp at Rye Boxing Club.

The group provide Muay Thai, kickboxing and K1 martial arts for all ages over seven.

“We applied for funding because this is a part of Rye without martial arts that we could cater for,” Sarah said.

“The application process was not simple and took several months but we got the money our application deserved.

“It’s absolutely amazing because throughout the whole process we were not sure we would make the criteria but in my heart I knew we would.

“We’re really pleased and proud to be able to do our thing now.”

Sarah said they can now apply for more funding, since securing this one means they do not have to rely on donations and memberships.

Philip has been in the sport for 27 years as a former southern area, English and European full contact champion.

The Mighty Eaton, as he was known, has also coached many hopefuls and champions but now he has set up his own camp.

Siam Boxing Camp opened in October and Sarah said they have already got a few possible competitors.

“It’s been really good as we’ve had a lot of members through the door,” she said.

“We have 15-20 members that are looking like they’re going to stick with us and three or four looking to compete.”

The club has had a few women join up to the delight of Sarah as she said she wants to make the group as inclusive as possible.

It is open Mondays, 6pm to 8pm, and Fridays, 6pm to 7.30pm – adults cost £5 and juniors are £4.

Businesses can get involved through sponsorship as Rye Data Solutions and Macron already have.

For more information call Sarah on 07824 877171, visit www.siamboxingcamp.com or their Facebook page.

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