Dorset Spotlight - March/April 2022 - Issue 1

Dorset

SPOTLIGHT

MARCH / APRIL 2022 ISSUE: NO.1

BRINGING THE DORSET COMMUNITY TOGETHER THROUGH SPORT, HEALTH & WELLNESS, AND SUPPORTING LOCAL CHARITIES

INTRODUCING TEAM ENGLAND PARA-SURFER ZOE SMITH

LUKE BARFOOT Talks racing within the elite scene whilst proudly representing local cycling team Primera Team-Jobs

BU BOBCATS

Offensive Captain Rey Shittu discusses the tremendous success the Bournemouth University American Football team achieved this season.

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RYAN PETFORD Bodybuilding is a way of life for the owner of Primitive Gymnasium.

Do you have what it takes to transform your body?

MARCH / APRIL 2022 - ISSUE 01

IN THIS ISSUE WELCOME TO DORSET SPOTLIGHT I am delighted to bring you Dorset Spotlight - a community magazine focusing on sport, health & wellbeing, and local charity news.

We aim to build a community of like-minded people, bringing together health-conscious individuals, sports teams, elite athletes and those embarking on their first fitness challenge.

Dorset Spotlight is here to INSPIRE you to get started, to MOTIVATE you to keep going, ENCOURAGING you to fulfil your ambitions and goals.

We also understand how difficult it has been for many charities throughout the pandemic. Dorset Spotlight celebrates the FABULOUS FUNDRAISERS and supports the local charities by sharing their upcoming events. I hope it will inspire you to take on a challenge and raise money for one of our incredible Dorset charities.

So, if you or your team have won a match or competition, you are raising money for a local charity, you have beaten an illness and gone on to do something special. Get in touch with us - we want to hear all about it - info@dorsetspotlight.co.uk Lastly, why not tell your friends - Dorset Spotlight is on Instagram @dorset_spotlight I hope you enjoy the issue. Until next time!

Dawn Exley Editor COLLABORATE | INSPIRE | CONNECT | SUPPORT

CONTACT US: info@dorsetspotlight.co.uk | Tel: 07793 725008 | Follow us on Instagram: @dorset_spotlight

CONTENTS DORSET

SPOTLIGHT

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MARCH

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APRIL

2022

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ISSUE

1

02

11 15

19

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Para-Surfer: Zoe Smith Sea Dipping: Diana Briggs Low-carb Recipes Primitive Gym: Ryan Petford Elite Cyclist: Luke Barfoot Try A New Sport BU Bobcats: Rey Shittu SUP World Record Holder: David Haze

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"I DON'T STOP WHEN I'M TIRED, I STOP WHEN I'M DONE." Find your passion and give it everything you've got!

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GO.

For more motivational quotes follow Dorset Spotlight on Instagram @dorset_spotlight 1 Dorset Spotlight, March/ April 2022

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inspiration

PARA-SURFER ZOE SMITH Q&A with Team England Para-Surfer Zoe Smith Zoe Smith from Dorchester can teach us a thing or two about resilience – no matter what you have been through, having a determined mindset can build strength and courage, leading to opportunity and success.

DS: Hi Zoe, it is fantastic to get the opportunity to chat with you. Please tell us about the life you led before you had your life-changing car accident.

ZOE: "I was just like everyone else really and assumed that nothing bad would ever happen to me. I had not long come back from a year of travelling with my friend, where we went backpacking around the world. I had secured a

AS THE RESULT OF A CAR ACCIDENT IN 2015, ZOE’S LOWER LEFT LEG WAS AMPUTATED DS: This must have been a terrible time for you and your family. How did you cope with the changes moving forward, and what techniques did you learn to be resilient to your situation?

ZOE: "Yes, it was a difficult time for us as a family. My mum and dad stayed at my hospital bedside for days that rolled into weeks. I certainly had some dark days where the pain and trauma felt insurmountable, but thankfully I had amazing support around me, and in the end, I enjoyed the challenge of learning to walk on a prosthetic. I am naturally quite resilient, which has helped me a lot."

place on a PGCE to teach sports at secondary school. I have always loved sport and have been active since I was little."

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DS: Tell us about your journey from your first surf lesson to joining Team England and competing at the ISA World Para Surfing Championships at Pismo Beach in California?

ZOE: "I was googling amputee surfers in lockdown as I have always wanted to surf. I saw a member of my team PegLeg Bennet on Instagram, and after contacting him, he recommended I have a session at the Wave Pool in Bristol. I booked a couple of beginner lessons and was hooked. The Wave was a nice gentle place to start and gave me the confidence to go for it. After a few sessions, Andy Joyce from Surf Steps and the Head Coach of the England Adaptive team offered me a place on the team.

Every participant earns the team points, so I was keen to accept. After that, I just trained as hard as I could so I could give myself the best possible opportunity of doing well."

The ISA World Para Surfing Championships took place between 711th December 2021, with 134 athletes from 24 nations, taking part in the event.

Zoe’s training and hard work paid off as she came fifth in the world and helped Team England rank 7th place overall - an outstanding achievement.

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ZDS: Tell us about the competition and the moment you realised you had placed an incredible fifth place. It must have been a proud moment for you?

ZOE: "I was thrilled. I was lucky that I was new, so I had no pressure on me. My coaches and the manager Phil Williams just said to go out there and enjoy myself. I was in California with an amazing group of people - what was not to love. My friends who live in California came down to watch me too. It was a brilliant atmosphere. I came second in my first heat, which was amazing. I then narrowly missed out on a medal in my second heat. It was an incredible experience."

DS: So, what is next for you… Do you have any more competitions lined up?

ZOE: "I have Hawaii in June, and then in July, we have the English adaptive open at the Wave in Bristol. I hope the new wave pool development in Dorset is approved- then we will have an incredible training facility on our doorstep. In the meantime, I am training as hard as I can and surfing 2-3 times a week. Currently, I am travelling to and from Cornwall and Devon as our local surf has gone a little flat!"

Follow Zoe's journey on Instagram @zoe_smith_parasurfer

ZOE SMITH

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"where your focus goes

your energy flows" For more motivational quotes follow Dorset Spotlight on Instagram @dorset_spotlight

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Q&A with Diana Briggs

FANCY A DIP?

Sea dipping and cold-water swimming have become increasingly popular recently, so pop on your swimmers and head to the coast - believe it or not, there are health benefits to this…

Dorset Spotlight talks to Diana Briggs owner of Bournemouth’s www.therapeuticyoga.co.uk, who is a keen sea dipper, and overall wellness enthusiast.

DS: Hi Diana, what made you decide to start plunging into the cold sea?

DIANA: "Happiness comes in waves, and it fills me with joy. Living near the sea, I occasionally sea dipped, but having July 2019more time during the pandemic, allowed me to go more frequently. Once I started to go frequently, I began to feel the mental and physical benefits - I became hooked. After a morning dip, I feel focused, and it sets me up for the day."

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DS: Sea dipping and cold-water swimming can be a great way of socialising and making new friends.

Tell us about the other health benefits associated with this?

DIANA: "It reduces inflammation within the body, boosting your metabolism and lowering stress levels. It helps with feelings of worry/anxiety or depression, encouraging a sense of grounding calmness' physically and mentally when you plunge. You become at one, absorbed by nature.

"The cold water also increases those feel-good endorphins, dopamine and serotonin, making you feel happier, calmer & more focused.

"Watching the silly faces and hearing the involuntary sounds of friends/fellow dippers embracing the cold water always makes you laugh out loud too."

DS: There are always safety considerations to think about when partaking in any water-based activity – can you give any safety tips to any newbies thinking of immersing themselves in cold water without a wetsuit for the first time?

DIANA: "Although we have fun in the water, there are safety considerations to be taken very seriously i.e.

1. Look out for each other by asking if they are okay. I would recommend a headcount in and out of the water if there is a group.

2. Time yourselves. As you are enjoying yourself and your body warms up, you can forget how long you have been in the water and can be at risk of hyperthermia. The general rule is one minute to every one degree.

3. Wear neoprene gloves and shoes - to help stop your digits from falling off!!

4. Dry yourself quickly before the chill kicks in. Wear lots of layers and have a hot water bottle ready.

5. Bring a hot drink in a flask and enjoy chatting and looking out to sea with your dipper friends.”

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DS: Tell us about the wild swimming group you belong to (on Instagram @bournemouth_sea_dippers). Where do you meet and at what time? Can anyone come along and join in?

DIANA: “The Bournemouth Sea Dippers group was formed during the pandemic and has now grown into a mixed friendly community group of lovely people who dip most days.

“Everyone is welcome. I joined the group as I didn't have anyone to sea dip with; I now go up to four times a week and know someone will always be there to dip. I feel safer and supported in a group environment, and it's more fun than dipping alone.

BOURNEMOUTH SEA DIPPERS

“We meet up next to Boscombe pier on weekdays at 7 am and

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weekends at 8 am; on Sundays, we bring baked goods to share too.

“We gained the name 'orange people' as Caz created a bright orange hoody with the Bournemouth Sea Dipper badge, and we all started to wear them to keep warm. They have a handy pouch at the front for the hot water bottle to go!”

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Peanut Butter Protein Fluff #GETDORSETHEALTHY

Serves 2

What you need to do:

250g full-fat Greek yogurt 2 tbsp. peanut butter or almond butter 2 tsp. stevia favourite garnish (banana, granola, blueberries)

1. Add the yogurt, nut butter and stevia into a small mixing bowl and whisk together using a hand mixer, until fluffy.

2. Transfer the mix into a bowl and top with your favourite toppings to serve.

Prep: 5 mins * Cook: 0 mins Kcal: 244 * Fats(g): 20 * Carbs(g): 9 * Protein(g): 9

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Cod with Creamy Zoodles #GETDORSETHEALTHY Serves 2 For the fish: 300g cod fillets 1 tsp. paprika 1 tsp. turmeric 1 tsp. oregano ½ tsp. chili 1 tbsp. buckwheat flour 60ml vegetable stock 80ml cream (dairy or plant based) 3 tbsp. chives, chopped For the zucchini: 2 medium zucchinis 1 tsp. oil 1 clove garlic, minced 4 sundried tomatoes

For the fish: 1.Cut the fish so that you have 2 or more pieces of fillet. Season with salt, pepper and spices, then coat with buckwheat flour.

2.Heat 2 tbsp. of oil in a frying pan and fry the cod until golden for about 5 minutes, then flip and repeat on the other side.

3.Mix the cream and the hot stock together. Pour into the pan with the cod and bring to a boil, simmer for 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle with chives and simmer for another 1-2 minutes.

For the zucchini: 4.Make zucchini noodles (zoodles) using a special julienne peeler or a spiralizer, or peel with a regular vegetable peeler, making wide but thin ribbons.

5.Heat the oil in a frying pan, add the minced garlic and fry briefly.

Add the zoodles and occasionally stir until they soften slightly, for about 3-4 minutes. In the meantime, season with salt and pepper.

At the end, add the chopped sundried tomatoes.

6.To serve, divide the zoodles between two bowls, place the cod on top and pour over the sauce.

Prep: 10 mins * Cook: 20 mins Kcal: 271 * Fats (g): 11 * Carbs (g): 13 * Protein (g): 33

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FEATURE

RYAN PETFORD PRIMITIVE GYM BODYBUILDING AT ITS BEST

Ryan set up Primitive Performance with his friends Scott Exley and Pro bodybuilder Harry Harris, providing plans to people worldwide to help them achieve their goals.

For Ryan Petford, bodybuilding is his life. Always striving to be the best version of himself - Ryan’s dedication to achieving a classic physique, like his idol Arnold Schwarzenegger, has taken commitment and dedication.

The entrepreneur did not stop there, as back in 2012, Ryan set up Primitive Gymnasium, a rustic bodybuilding gym in the heart of Parkstone. The gyms following grew, and at the start of this year, it moved to bigger premises on Ringwood Road in Poole.

Not only is Ryan a bodybuilding competitor himself, but he also helps other men and women reach their body transformation goals.

The new Primitive Gymnasium is a busy, vibrant hub of like-minded people - bodybuilders, fighters, and the home to the weekly pole and hoop classes. And if that is not enough, you can buy mega cookies at the gym's coffee shop Cookies and Coffee!

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DS: Hi Ryan, let's jump right in. What was it that drew you to bodybuilding over other sports?

RYAN: "I played many sports when I was younger. I played a lot of football - in goal, but I soon realised that I could not control every aspect of the game. I could play my best and still lose due to the overall team performance.

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"I started lifting weights at 14 years old and responded quickly and enjoyed the fact I could control all aspects of bodybuilding, and only I was accountable for the results I achieved.

"I was always a fan of Arnold even before I started lifting weights. I would watch all of his movies, and I always thought I would like to look like that one day. I competed in my first show at 16 years old; then I was hooked."

DS: What type of mindset does it take to achieve a complete body transformation.

Tell us about the sacrifices you have made to achieve your goals?

RYAN: "To achieve a great body transformation, you must have the right mindset and show 100% commitment. If not, you will fail at the first hurdle. You can have some balance and achieve a good physique. I always say 80% good and 20% bad diet-wise.

“When preparing for a bodybuilding show, you need to be much stricter, and this can mean no bad food for three to four months. There is no balance when trying to achieve extremelylow body fat levels. You must continuously make sure you are in a calorie deficit, so activity levels are high, and calories are low.

“As your body gets leaner, it is harder to achieve the last bit of conditioning needed for a show. I have been as low as 1500 kcals, and my output has been 2500 kcal to achieve my best condition."

DS: What advice would you give to someone looking at changing their physique?

RYAN: "I would make sure you are doing it for the right reasons. As I said, you must be committed to the goal and certain it is what you want. You also must understand there will be tough times, potential hunger, fatigue, and missing meals out with friends and family.

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“Many enter a transformation not knowing what hardships they may encounter; the leaner you want to get, the harder the process will be. So, it is important to ensure you are ready mentally before starting a transformation."

DS: It sounds like you have been busy recently with the move to the new gym. Tell us the story of Primitive Gymnasium; has it always been your dream to own a gym?

RYAN: "It was never actually my dream to own a gym, I moved to Bournemouth when I went to university, and I could not find a good, friendly old school free weights gym.

“When I left university, I struggled to get a job, and I was unemployed for some time and sofa surfing. I spent some time in Southampton working in an old school gym called area 51, owned by Wayne Niemic. He took me in, paid me and showed me how to run a gym. So, when I returned to Bournemouth, I thought I would look for premises and apply for a loan to attempt to open my gym. I was fortunate to get a small loan from Tesco’s, and I found an old snooker club - this is where my journey began.

Before

“We had very little at the start, as most of my loan went on solicitor’s fees and redecorating the derelict premises.

“I am very fortunate to be surrounded by amazing people; both family and friends came to my rescue and helped turn the building into something that resembled a gym. With an empty bank account and plenty of debt, I opened the doors in 2012. I was fortunate to have a few people see its potential, many of which are still with me. We had basic equipment but a great atmosphere, and with every penny I earned, I reinvested back into the gym.

After

“10-years later, I am in a position I could only dream about 10years ago. We have over 5000 Square feet of warehouse space filled with the world's best gym equipment and a waiting list for our memberships. I have always focused on providing quality over quantity; therefore, memberships are limited, unlike the large commercial gyms that have unlimited memberships available, resulting in an unusable gym at times."

DS: What is next for the Primitive brand?

RYAN: "We are working on a new season for our clothing brand, which is released soon. Moving forward, I will continue to progress the gym by providing the world’s best equipment for our athletes and our regular users.

Full details about Primitive Performance can be found here www.primitiveplans.com

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After

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"EVERY ACOMPLISHMENT STARTS WITH THE DECISION

TO TRY"

For more motivational quotes follow Dorset Spotlight on Instagram @dorset_spotlight dorsetspotlight.co.uk

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FEATURE

LUKE BARFOOT CYCLING TO SUCCESS Dorset Spotlight had the pleasure of chatting to Luke Barfoot, 27, about his passion for cycling. The sponsored athlete tells us what it is like to race within the elite scene while representing the local cycling team Primera TeamJobs.

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DS: Hi Luke, tell us how you got into competitive racing and what it is about cycling that is so special?

LUKE: "I have been into my cycling since a very young age, but before I transitioned into cycling competitively, I was competing in athletics and football on weekends.

"I got my first road bike when I was 19 after saving up following my first full-time job. My first road bike was a Giant Defy 4, and the adventure started there.

"I began to go out with some local lads around who were already racing, so for sure, to start with, it was a challenge for me to keep up at times. But I began to love the sport fast, and my competitive nature pushed me to give racing a go.

“In springtime 2014, I had saved enough money again to buy my first full-carbon road bike (Scott Foil), under the guidance of a good mate Dan Mcquillan who guided me throughout my early stages. My first race was a crit race around the town centre of Shaftesbury. This race was a massive shock to me as I had no idea what to expect, but I loved it and wanted more.”

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DS: You cycle within the amateur cycling team Primera Team-Jobs; tell us about the team, your role, and what 2022 has in store for you?

LUKE: "Primera TeamJobs is in Bournemouth/Poole and was set up in 2016 by Bill Temple and Jason Gault. The team is supported/sponsored by several local companies, Team Jobs, Symes Wealth Management and Cams. The Kit supplier for the team this year is Nopinz.

My role within the team is to produce an individual result whilst helping the team achieve the overall results.

“I have a jammed packed 2022 season ahead of me, but my personal goals for this year are: ·Mallorca 312 end of April (193 miles event) ·Win a national road race ·Be competitive in the Full National Road Series across seven rounds Gain enough points to achieve my Elite Licence” DS: Tell us about your training schedule in the run-up to the start of the race season?

LUKE: "My training kicked off ready for this season back in November and I've been averaging 14-16hrs a week. In the first few weeks, I like to mix my training up; with cycling, gym work and the odd run.

“I have just recently recovered from Covid.

I was lucky it did not knock me back much, but a week of no training was not ideal as everything was going well.

“However, I am very soon off to Mallorca end of Feb for 2.5 weeks. I will take part in a team camp for the first week, and I will spend the rest of my time with some friends who are also into cycling and preparing for their 2022 season.”

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DS: What has been your best cycling achievement so far, individually or as a team?

LUKE: "There are four results/achievements which stand out. The first was becoming the overall GC winner of the Bournemouth Cycleworks stage race in 2018 - a two-day event with three stages (stage 1 hill climb, stage 2 time trial, stage 3 road race on Purbecks). I won the final stage, and with added time bonuses, I went on to win the overall stage. My second achievement was Ilton Nat B Crit win back in 2019. It was that day five years ago I gave my first race a go. It was a race result I always looked up to when I first started racing at Ilton. My third achievement was not a race but an event most cyclists like to give a go - the Everest Challenge. I completed in September 2021 in under 10hrs on Wynyard's Gap hill near Crewkerne.”

DS: Have you had any unpleasant crashes or accidents when cycling?

LUKE: “The biggest crash I have had was at the Stockton GP back in 2018. It happened within the first 10 minutes of the race, on a fast pace straight road. I ended up being in the middle of a pile-up in which a chainring had hit my head hard behind my ear. I had a concussion, and I had an inch cut glued up. Also, whilst out training, a car pulled out of a junction on me. It wrote the bike off, and I was lucky to walk away from the crash with no significant damage.”

DS: What advice would you give someone thinking about taking up competitive cycling?

LUKE: “We all have to start somewhere, and of course, it will be tough, to begin with until you find your feet.

Firstly, build up your confidence within a bunch, which will get you ready to ride within a pack. Join a local cycling club - the grassroots to any sport - you will find plenty of experienced riders who have raced or riders who want to give it a go.”

DS: Tell us about your favourite place to cycle in the UK, and if you could cycle anywhere in the world, where would that be?

LUKE: "Dorset is the best place in the UK to ride my bike. I enjoy riding in the Purbecks or the coastal road between Bridport – Weymouth. I also enjoy cycling in Calpe, South Spain. I have been twice, and I found the variety of roads and cycling community there in January/February amazing.”

Follow Luke's progress on Instagram @lukebarfoot and @primerateamjobs

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TRY A NEW SPORT SWIMMING

Living in Dorset and having the Jurassic coast on our doorstep, means that you can often find yourself near to water, so being able to swim and having some basic water safety knowledge is useful and fun.

Benefits of Swimming Swimming is a full-body workout that focuses on your heart and lung health. It is a great way to stay healthy whatever your age or ability. It can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and stroke.

Swimming can boost your mood and relieve stress, all whilst keeping your weight under control. If you swim regularly you will tend to build muscle from head to toe. The lats and back muscles in swimmers tend to be amongst the most developed, and you may find that your posture begins to improve too.

This low-impact sport is a great way to boost your health without stressing sensitive bones and joints.

You can also exercise longer because of its low impact nature. One study showed that you could burn 488 calories in 30 minutes doing front crawl.

Its never too late to learn to swim, so if you are keen to learn why not sign up to some local swimming lessons. Even if your stroke just feels rusty or it’s been a while since you swam laps, work with an instructor.

Your local swimming pool will likely offer group or private options, cater for a variety of needs and abilities.

So, what are you waiting for grab your swim wear and googles and head to the swimming pool!

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FEATURE

BOURNEMOUTH UNIVERSITY BOBCATS BOBCATS VICTORY The Bournemouth University American football team smashed their season by winning every game and were crowned Southwest Division 2 Champions.

The good news doesn’t stop there... Seven Bobcats were selected to trial for the North vs South University All-Stars game, showcasing the best talent from British Universities.

Ethan Ford, Linebacker for the Bobcats, was selected along with Quarterbacks Alfie Birks and Kaan Array; and Wingback Jake Trainor this was the first time in Bobcat history that its players were selected.

Dorset Spotlight had the pleasure of catching up with Offense Captain Rey Shittu - about the incredible success the BU Bobcats have achieved this season.

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Hi Rey, congratulations on being crowned Southwest Division 2 Champions after winning every game this season- an outstanding achievement by the team. Tell us about the season and how the pandemic impacted team training and matches?

REY: “Thank you, it’s been an incredible season, and I am proud of everyone. Going undefeated throughout the regular season is no easy feat and is a true testament to the hard work the coaches and players have put in to get us in the position we are currently in.

“At the beginning of the season, there was uncertainty; with the pandemic postponing the whole of last season, we had very few returning players. Many of the current players have only started playing the sport this season, and it is truly incredible to see the progress they have all made.

"The pandemic hasn’t been easy for us. We’ve been through difficult times, with players and coaches missing training and matches due to positive cases - it has left us continually having to adapt. But we continue to battle through and make sure we are all there for each other. Our motto is “I’m my brother’s keeper”, and that is something that has never meant more than this season.”

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The popularity of American football rose in 1985 when channel 4 gained the rights to show the NFL highlights and the Super Bowl. The number of people playing competitively in the UK shot up and an official league was launched with over 100 teams involved. In 2007, this led to NFL games being played in Wembley Stadium, now several international games are played in London each season.

The National Football League (NFL) is the most profitable professional sport league in the USA. The NFL consists of 32 teams and is currently making around 6.5 billion U.S. dollars in revenue.

The BU Bobcats compete in the British Universities American Football League (BUAFL) which is part of British Universities and Colleagues Sport (BUSC).

What attracted you to play American Football compared to other sports – such as rugby?

REY: “I came through a basketball background, playing from the age of 13 to 19. When I joined Bournemouth University, I was planning to continue playing basketball. But during fresher’s fair I was approached by some of the Bobcats players at the time about joining the team. Originally, I was sceptical about playing a new sport but after going to the taster session I immediately took an interest into the sport.

“After watching many, many videos on American football and several Netflix series I began falling in love with the sport but especially the family culture that it provides. For me American football is the ultimate team sport, it brings a level of togetherness that I honestly believe no other sport can bring. You quickly become a family which relies on each other for the whole team to succeed.”

DS: Tell us about your role in the team and what makes playing for the BU Bobcats so special?

REY: “The coaches gave me the honour of being the Offence Captain on this team alongside Defensive Captain Louis Foligno and Team Captain Jake Trainor. It’s means everything to us, the three of us started this journey together back in 2018 and have been through many highs and lows and it’s a blessing that we get to end this chapter together as captains.

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“My role as the Offensive captain is to try and make sure everyone on the offence is on the same page and remains motivated. There will always be times each game where the players are left disappointed and it’s up to me and the other captains to keep morale high and offer encouragement. It’s not always positive just like any other sport, we sometimes must be stern with our teammates when we feel something is wrong but that’s just part of the job.

As a team we set a high standard in terms of performance, discipline, and enjoyment and as captains we pride ourselves on making sure all are met.

“Honestly playing for the BU Bobcats has changed my life. I owe a lot to this team. I’ve been able to make some friends who I now consider my family such as my best friend running back Sam Quaye.

The brotherhood within this team is unbelievable.

The moment you join you immediately realise this is no ordinary team.

"Being part of the BU Bobcats completely transforms your university experience. We are probably one of the most diverse team within the university, with people from so many different backgrounds its honestly amazing how easily we all gel. Our main chant consists of the words “Who’s got my back” followed by “I’ve got your back”. We don’t just say it, we mean it. We all always have each other’s back; I know when I’m at my lowest my brothers will help pick me up. Over the past four years, I have witnessed so much growth within this team and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”

DS: American football seems like a thrilling and physically demanding sport. How much training is involved in getting competition ready?

REY: “It is demanding but so rewarding. It requires a lot of discipline and focus but it’s one of the great things about the sport. We have three physical training sessions a week, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday unless there is a match on that day. We also have a film session on Thursday, this is where we look through our playbook, analyse our performance but also look for weaknesses in our future opponents. In terms of getting competition ready the main component is our coaches. Honestly, we can’t do any of it without them. They have all made a massive commitment towards the team. The coaches take time out of their days to come train us and pass on their knowledge and we are all extremely grateful for everything they have done for us over the years.”

DS: Four Bobcats have been selected to play for the North vs South GB University All Star Game. Tell us what it means for the team for them to be selected for this game?

REY: “We are so proud of them. This is a history making moment, The BU Bobcats have never had any players participate in the All-Star game and to have four in one season is an extraordinary achievement not only for the players but the whole team. They all have worked incredibly hard and deserve this opportunity. Throughout the season they have all been players we have relied on in big moments and continuously they have delivered, and we are all delighted their talent has been recognised.

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“Since 2018, Wide Receiver Jake Trainor and Linebacker Ethan Ford have been key to the success of the team and consistently performed at an incredible level. Their work ethic over the past four years has never been doubted and have continued to up their game every time they set the field. Both Quarterbacks Kaan Aray and Alfie Birks have set alight this offence whether it be a 75 yard running touchdown or throwing dimes across the field. Both players joined the team earlier in September and have quickly taken roles as leaders of this team. Large praises must go to QB Coach and BU Bobcats Alumni Luke Marder as he has put so much work into the development of both players as a result two Quarterbacks from the same team are going to the All-star game which is something extremely rare.”

DS: Do you or any of your team aspire to progress further in American Football? Is USA calling?

REY: “Potentially, with American Football growing within the UK a lot of talent is being produced. We recently had a BU Bobcats Alumni J Alex Geas (Titi) join the Swarco Raiders, a premier American football organisation within Europe. If the current players continue to learn and grow under the guidance of our Head Coach Steve Rains and put in hard work and dedication like “Titi “, there is no reason why players from the Bobcats can’t reach the same if not higher heights.”

DS: So, what is next for the Bournemouth Bobcats? When does the season resume, and can anyone come along to support and watch the games?

REY: “After clinching the Division 2 South West Championship over our biggest rivals the Solent Redhawks, we now have our eyes set on the playoffs and winning the Division 2 South Championship. Our first playoff game is coming soon, everyone is welcome to support us. We play our matches at Chapelgate on specific Sundays."

For further details about BU Bobcats, check out their Instagram page @bu_bocats.

Photos by Chris Coope - Follow Chris on Instagram @bugz12r

REY SHITTU

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EVERY CHAMPION WAS ONCE A CONTENDER THAT REFUSED TO GIVE UP For more motivational quotes follow Dorset Spotlight on Instagram @dorset_spotlight

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FEATURE

SUP WORLD RECORD HOLDER DAVID HAZE SUP WORLD RECORD HOLDER TO TAKE ON LOCH NESS AND UNTAMED BEASTS CAMPAIGN

David, 37, is not stopping there as he is also preparing to take on a world-first for the sport. On the 9th of May, David will attempt to break 33 world records on 33 lakes, across 33 European countries, in 66 days.

Dorset Spotlight had the pleasure of chatting to David Haze, a former prisoner and six times SUP - World Record holder.

DS: Hi David, you have an exciting and busy couple of months coming up. Tell us how you got into Stand Up Paddleboarding and why you love the sport?

On the 7th of March 2022, David, from Bournemouth, will attempt his seventh world record to cross Loch Ness in the fastest time, paddling the length from Fort Augustus to Inverness on his stand up paddleboard.

DAVID: "Living in Bournemouth, I have always had a connection to the water. I started surfing at an early age, and I became a 2x National Champion Sailor, and I surfed for my University's (Solent) surfing team. However, living where we do provides a lot of flat-water days. That's when I took to SUP and instantly fell in love with the extra sense of freedom and connection that the sport provides. It allowed me to learn who I am and explore my surroundings which other sports cannot do."

He has teamed up with the paddleboard brand Water Rascal - they have designed an iRacer, a custom inflatable paddleboard for David to reach maximum performance during his attempt.

Would you like to own this unique board? The chance is there as it will be auctioned after the challenge to raise money for the Jubilee Sailing Trust, which changes lives through adventure and exploration.

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DS: People make mistakes, and you ultimately paid the price for yours. However, people should have the right to turn their lives around. Tell us about this time of your life, what happened, and what changes you made to embark on a positive path?

Dorset Spotlight, March/ April 2022 24

DAVID: "I wasn't dealt the worse cards in life, but I was also not dealt the best. I went to boarding school, which gave me plenty of opportunities, but they never let me deal with failure. I moved to London and started a financial career which eventually went wrong, and by living a sheltered life, I did not have the tools to deal with failure. I handled the situation in the worst way and never asked for help, which resulted in a prison sentence.

“However, I have learned some life lessons. The bravest and scariest thing you can ever do in life is asking for help. Such a simple act can change your life for the better. But ultimately, no matter what, your past or mistakes do not define who you are! No matter the cards you are dealt in life, it all comes down to yourself. We are the only ones in control of our destiny, and that's why I now stand proud with six world records under my belt and a message to share."

If David succeeds in his Untamed Beast Campaign, he will secure his place in the sport's hall of fame.

David will also be raising money for three charities close to his heart: the RAF Benevolent Fund, the Alliance of Sport and Adventure Therapy.

DS: Tell us about the charities you have chosen to support and why these are close to your heart?

DAVID: “The power of sport and adventure have transformed my life, which is why I fundraise for the 'Alliance of Sport', which use the power of sport in the criminal justice system to help tackle reform and rehabilitation. I am immensely proud that they have made me one of their ambassadors.

“My father died three months before I was born in the RAF, and the RAF Benevolent Fund looked after my mother and I. Having this platform means I can raise both money and awareness for them.

“My last charity 'Adventure Therapy' is so underrepresented that I want to support them as the adventure has changed my life, and they are in line with my ethos. Adventure is such a powerful tool, and I want more people to realise that!”

You can donate via the link https://www.justgiving.com/team/untamedbeasts Keep updated with David's progress by following him on Instagram @nomadicpaddler

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DAVID HAZE

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Upcoming Charity Events dorsetspotlight.co.uk

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL CHARITY

Fantastic Fundraisers

CHARITY

FOCUS

Dorset Spotlight, March/ April 2022 26

CHARITY FOCUS

FOREST HOLME HOSPICE Tucked away in the centre of Poole in Dorset, sits Forest Holme Hospice, which provides individually tailored and quality care to adults across Poole, Wimborne and the Isle of Purbeck facing a lifelimiting illness.

Forest Holme is part of Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust and is supported by Forest Holme Hospice Charity. There is no charge for people in need of hospice care, so every year the charity needs to raise at least £950,000 to help enhance the NHS provision at the hospice and ensure that Forest Holme is there for patients and their family and friends during the most difficult time of their lives.

Forest Holme provides end of life care and support to more than 1,000 people each year with advanced cancer and other life-limiting illnesses such as Motor Neurone Disease, Parkinson’s, heart disease and respiratory illness.

The hospice has a team of specialist doctors, nurses, counsellors and specialist care teams who provide practical and emotional support for adults of all ages and their families in a variety of settings, such as their own home, nursing home, care home, in hospital or in the hospice itself.

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Forest Holme also offer counselling and bereavement support to both newly diagnosed individuals and family members, as it understands that care extends beyond physical treatment of symptoms, as the emotional, psychological, spiritual and social needs of patients, their families, children and carers all need to be considered.

However, to ensure that these essential services are there for others in the future, Forest Holme Hospice Charity needs continued local community support to raise an additional 1.9 million pounds over the next two years. Additional funding is required to support all aspects of the hospice including the in-patient ward, the purchasing of specialist equipment, the funding of additional staffing posts, complementary therapies, and the bereavement counselling service.

Visit www.forestholmehospice.org.uk

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Fantastic Fundraisers Kim Tricker raises £295 for Diverse Abilities Christchurch resident, Kim, completes the South West Virtual Challenge, by walking 630 miles.

Henrietta Young hosts an art auction, raising more than £100,000 for Diverse Abilities Pictures for The Beehive, a contemporary art exhibition hosted at the home of the Earl and Countess of Shaftesbury, has raised more than £100,000 for Diverse Abilities Splash Appeal, which will go towards the building of a hydrotherapy pool for people with profound disabilities.

Chantal Stewart raises £450 for Forest Holme Hospice Chantal, who works as Complementary Therapist at Forest Holme Hospice raised £450 from competing in the New Forest Half Marathon.

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Fantastic Fundraisers Bill Hutchings raises £650 for Forest Holme Hospice Bill, from Corfe Mullen, raised £650 from selling handmade hedgehog boxes, bird boxes and tables from his house.

Alvin Yau raises £235 for Julia's House Alvin, from Bournemouth, raised £235 by taking part in the Julia's House Big Ride.

Natalie Maidment raised £1403 for Julia's House Natalie, from Essex, raised £1403 by taking part in the Run Bournemouth.

Congratulations to all the Fantastic Fundraisers who have been raising money for our Dorset charities, your support and generosity is greatly appreciated.

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Upcoming

Charity Events Forest Holme Hospice Sign up today to take part on July 9th and experience the amazing adrenalin rush of taking on a 100m descent, while taking in the unmissable views across Portsmouth harbour, the Solent and Isle of Wight.

All whilst supporting your favourite local NHS hospice. www.forestholmehospice.org.uk/events/ abseil-spinnaker-tower

Pictures for the Beehive on Tour This is an exhibition of portraits. It is being held to help raise the £1million needed to build a hydrotherapy pool for The Beehive Centre, a treatment and therapy centre in Dorset where adults with profound disabilities spend their weekdays.

Every portrait is of someone who attends The Beehive, a therapy and activity centre in Dorset run by the charity Diverse Abilities.

The people who go there have physical and learning disabilities, and for most of them it is the very first time anyone has ever drawn or painted them….

Opens 9am, 10th March till 5pm, 11th March.

Pavilion in the Park, St Johns Way, Dorchester, DT1 2FG dorsetspotlight.co.uk

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Upcoming

Charity Events Dorset Neon Run Join hundreds of Diverse Abilities supporters for a fun and colourful night of fundraising at our Dorset Neon Run When: Saturday 23rd April Registration: 6.30pm How far: 5k - walk, run, or jog!

Where: Poole Park, Poole, Dorset BH15 2SF www.dorsetneonrun.com

Jurassic Coast Trek 2022 Take your hiking to new heights with a marathon or half marathon trek along the spectacular Jurassic Coast. Celebrate your epic achievement with a prosecco and hog roast in the magnificent grounds of Harry Warren House, looking out over Old Harry Rocks and the beautiful Studland beach When: Sunday 26th June 2022 How far: 13 miles £15 or 26 miles £20 Location: Studland www.juliashouse.org/jurassic-coast2022

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