Mersey Thai was a thriving club and hub of the community in Tranmere between 2000 and 2020. Working with around 3,000 students producing British and European champions as well as turning many lives around and keeping local youngsters away from crime. Unfortunately, during lockdown, the landlord of the gym removed all the equipment, leaving the building in a state of disrepair. Laura Baugh, Director and European Thai Boxing Champion (2014) aims to reopen the club and welcome back students.
Laura explains “I have been part of Mersey Thai boxing club since 2006, when I was 13. I spent my childhood years living in the area in which the gym is situated. There has always been a level of anti-social behaviour and the classes I attended kept me away from such things. Through Mersey Thai I was taught the values of respect, discipline, teamwork and the importance of exercise and sport on both my physical and mental well-being. I had not been to many places before Thai boxing became part of my life. I have since travelled all over the country, from London to Carlisle and everywhere in between. I have also had the privilege of taking my own students to Jersey on several occasions.
I was bullied in my younger years, and the gym gave me confidence. After my first friendly competition (called an Interclub) I did not suffer bullying of any kind. The club has changed my life for the better in more ways than I can explain.
I am the former UK number 3, having had far less experience than my peers, I am the former Northern Area, 2 x English, British Eliminator and European Champion. I am qualified as both a judge and referee of the sport.
As a child I would never have believed these things possible, but Mersey Thai gave me everything I needed to accomplish these things.”
The Foundation awarded a grant towards the Club’s ‘Kicking Out Crime’ Project, to replace gym equipment and deliver much needed classes.
Despite starting from scratch and carrying out some much needed repairs to the neglected building, Laura is hopeful that the Club will be open for 1st September. Delivering classes for beginners, women and children as well as classes for more advanced fighters with the potential to compete at championship level.
We cannot wait to see the transformation and for the Club to become part of the local community once again.
