Bambudda Bartender Ready to Put the Rum in Rumble at Aprons for Gloves
Recent import from the Land of Oz, James E. Stevenson didn’t waste any time jumping into the ring to train for this year’s Aprons for Gloves. His arrival in Gastown came just a few weeks before the tryouts, but with a little encouragement he was game to get involved. Landing a spot in the light heavyweight division, James is already getting fit and making friends on the road to the main event.
Name: James E. Stevenson
Workplace & Role: Bartender at Bambudda
Boxing Moniker: Not yet!
Favourite Gastown Eatery: Notturno
Favourite Gastown retail: Sharks and Hammers
What inspired you to sign up for the Restaurant Rumble?
My friend from back home in Australia has been here for a few years, working and living in Gastown, and recommended I try it. I thought it would be a great way to meet people in the local hospitality scene. I also wanted to get fit and out of the house on lazy days.
Why do you think this event is filled with mostly Gastown restaurant workers?
I’m new to the area, but I can see that the hospitality scene here, more than other areas in the city, seems to have a close-knit, family vibe. We all help each other out. I think a lot of the Gastown contenders are doing it because their friends have competed in the past.
What do you hope to gain from this experience?
I only hoped to gain friendships and fitness, which I have already done.
What is your fighting style – slick moves & good defense or power puncher who doesn’t mind making it ugly?
I am definitely a patient, defensive fighter. In the few training bouts I’ve participated in, I play defense a lot and wait for my openings.
What do you think Las Vegas odds makers would say your chances are of winning your bout on July 23rd?
I think I’m doing well in training and I have a formidable left jab. I don’t know how they work their odds, but in my division, I think I can hold my own in the ring and take home the title.
James is training now for the third annual Aprons for Gloves event on July 23rd at the SFU Woodward building. Each boxer must raise $2k to compete and all money raised goes to support boxing programs for at-risk women and youth. Support James with a donation here:
Aprons for Gloves is a non-profit organization focused on community outreach through the sport of boxing. It offers free mentorship and training to individuals who may otherwise not have the resources to participate. Boxing teaches discipline, respect and self-control, delivering positive self-esteem and camaraderie for its practitioners.
