Gary Arca – April 2024
Gary is the definition of a contender, being that he gives his all both in life and at the gym. He is someone who never lets a knockdown in life stop him and he always gets up and tries again. He is also one of our longest and most consistent members after 18 years, so it’s long overdue we give him the credit he deserves. Check out our Q & A with him.
Q: Can you start by telling us what a day in your life looks like?
A: AS CFO of a small Public mining Company, I arrive at the office around 10am (post traffic) and Frantically answer 50 emails and then proceed to stomp out fires. No one ever calls, writes or walks into my office to wish me a nice day, there is always a problem that needs solving 
. All waiting for the favorite part of my day – lunch – er I mean workout at CONTENDERS, the happiest place on Earth !
Q: What is your history like with sports/athleticism?
A: I did track and football in high school and kept up my workouts since then with weights mainly, and swimming. Had a few years in the 90’s and early 2000’s where I let it go and paid dearly. So started with CONTENDERS, the happiest place on Earth, in 2006 and never looked back ( except when I would have the odd heart attack – bumps in the road!).
Q: How long have you been at Contenders now?
A: 18th year – since Jan 2006
Q: What makes the experience of being a member at Contenders unique?
A: The workout is never the same. Always different and challenging. Getting to know the people is a great part of being there. You make great friends of like minds (except Damon – no one thinks like him – and also Aldo, weird)
Q: What has been your biggest roadblock when boxing at Contenders, and how have you or are you overcoming it?
A: Having to recover from illnesses, and trying to keep the weight off. Just keep swimming, keep swimming…
Q: How do you stay consistent and motivated with your practice?
A: The scale helps. And also, I cant imagine not working out as it improves every part of your life – except for the aches and pains waking up each day .
Q: What advice would you give to someone just beginning their boxing journey?
A: Don’t think you have to over do it or keep up with everyone. Start at your own pace and challenge yourself each new week. And have fun.
Q: …And lastly, tell us something people would be surprised to learn about you?
A: I have 3 wonderful daughters, a wife and 2 female dogs at home. I have no influence over my life anymore – but my wine cellar and whisky collection help me survive !
(PS. I despite what Kevin says, I do not eat lunch at Cactus everyday ).
