Feisty Sandy Furner
Not just an elite fighter but a mother of two, ‘Feisty' Sandy Furner is an inspiration to men and ladies alike! Number-one ranked welterweight in Australia, boasting an impressive fight record with titles to match, there is no doubt that when Sandy jumps in the ring she's there to win. Although currently in Bangkok representing Australia in the Tuff Girls television series, Sandy made the time to tell Sylvia Schiavoni a little bit about herself.
How did you get into Muay Thai?
Being a personal trainer and group exercise instructor, I wanted to do my own training somewhere else away from the gym. My brother was always into martial arts, so I started training at a Muay Thai gym with him.
What is it about Muay Thai that you love?
Everything! I love the feeling of the full-contact, the challenge that Muay Thai brings and the intensity of the training required to be at the top of your game.
How do you prepare for a fight?
Every fight I am physically and mentally prepared so when I step into that ring I give 100 per cent. Knowing that I've trained my hardest before a fight gives me the confidence to believe in my ability when it comes to the fight.
Who are you outside of the ring?
I'm a 39-year-old wife and mum of two teenage kids aged 16 and 14. I've worked in the fitness industry for over 20 years.
How do you balance being a mother and a fighter?
The hardest thing about fighting is juggling work, training and being a mum. But knowing that I haven't got many years left to fight means I just make it happen because I have goals that I want to achieve in Muay Thai.
Do your children share your interest in the sport?
My children have their own sports and don't participate in Muay Thai but they are very supportive of what I do and they are very proud of my achievements.
What was it like the first time you jumped in the ring?
The unknown always makes you nervous but I knew in my heart that this was the sport I wanted to pursue, so I was in there to give 100 per cent. With a TKO win in the second round I was pretty happy.
What have you learnt up until now since your first fight?
Definitely to enjoy the experience and not to put pressure on myself whatever the outcome, but in saying that, I'm only there for one reason!
What has your greatest achievement or proudest moment been as a fighter?
Winning my titles would have to be my greatest achievements. My proudest moments as a fighter would be every time I step into the ring and apply my skills that I have trained so hard to perfect, whatever the outcome.
What has your proudest moment being personally?
My proudest moment to date is that at my age I've come so far in this sport. I'm still competitive and passionate about my fighting, and I believe that I can still achieve the goals I have set for myself.
What moments in the ring or in your life have helped define the person you have become?
In the ring, the most defining moment for me was having three big losses in a row, which made me question my ability and learning from those losses to move forward and grow from it as a fighter. All my life experiences have played a part in defining who I am now.
Who has inspired or guided you along the way?
In regards to my fighting, my brother has been my mentor, training and guiding me through most of my fights. I'm now training out of Jabout with Jason Lapin, which I'm enjoying so much and I am learning so much more.
Right now you're in Bangkok for Tuff Girls, how do you feel about being selected to participate in the show?
I'm really excited about this opportunity. I'm honoured to have been chosen, as I love to be challenged and enjoy new experiences. I just want to prove to myself and show my kids that anything is possible with hard work, determination and the belief within yourself.
What are your goals for the future?
I would love to fight Angie Parr and Julie Kitchen. I'm really looking to have some more international fights and to have the chance to fight for a World Title. I hope that my time on Tuff Girls will get me recognised overseas. IK
Sandy Furner
Fight Name: Feisty
Height: 175cm
DOB: 25 March, 1971
Weight: 63.5-66kg
Club/Stable: Jabout
Location: Riverstone, NSW
Style: Muay Thai
Record: 20 Fights, 15 Wins, 5 Losses
Titles: Current ISKA South Pacific Light Welterweight Champion (63.5kg), Current WKA South Pacific Light Welterweight Champion (63.5kg), Current WMTA Light Welterweight Australian Champion (64kg), Former WKA South Pacific Welterweight Champion (66kg)
Strongest weapon: Hands and front-kick
Favourite weapon: Hands
Favourite all-time fighter: Mike Tyson when he was at his best. He was relentless and every punch was with mean intentions.
Most memorable fight to date: All of them, especially my titles! I earned my wins and I've learnt from my losses.
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