Salmon Arm's Whizbang Boxing is looking for local doctors to make house calls in order for the gym to be able to host more and increase opportunities for local athletes. 

The gym held its first Olympic-style boxing event in October and has more planned, with the next scheduled for March, but Whizbang owner Shawn Desautels said having the required doctor ringside is proving to be a major hurdle. 

"Having events locally is essential for the development of athletes in our region," he said in a media release. "But without a ringside doctor, we can't proceed with hosting. It's a critical part of ensuring athlete safety and meeting Boxing Canada's regulations."

According to that organization's rules, a certified medical doctor must be present at the ring to oversee athlete health, perform pre-bout medicals and provide immediate treatment for any injuries. Getting local doctors to take ringside seats, however, is challenging given the current situation in the health industry.

"Doctors are already stretched thin in their regular practices," Desautels said. "Asking them to give up part of their weekend for a boxing event is a tough sell."

He had two doctors assisting at the first event but, as they're unavailable in March, Whizbang Boxing is trying to build a roster of trained professionals for future events. Desautels has been reaching out to local physicians, who would receive an honorarium for their time and support from Boxing BC officials if it's their first time ringside.

"We're not just asking for their time," he added. "We're inviting them to be part of something that uplifts our community and supports young athletes."

Local athletes, of which the gym is training seven, including two females, will benefit from having more accessible competitions that don't require the cost and time of travel.

"Travelling to larger cities isn't an option for everyone," Desautels said. "Our focus is on developing boxers in the Interior and Northern B.C. Boxing BC tends to prioritize Vancouver, and we're often left out. We need to represent and advocate for boxers outside of Vancouver."

Hosting local events also helps provide an economic boost during shoulder seasons, with the October event having six out-of-town clubs attend, bringing athletes, coaches, families and officials from across B.C. and Alberta to Salmon Arm. Additionally, the event raised $500 for the Shuswap Hospice Society and 50/50 proceeds going to the Shuswap Children's Association.

As the March event approaches, Desautels is optimistic a solution will be found and hopes local doctors will come forward.

To get more information, contact the gym at whizbangboxing@gmail.com or 250-306-0803.