News of Vic Zimet’s passing circulated through the room before the meeting . . . Vic was 84 years old, walked and talked like a 30 year old, and had the enthusiasm and energy of a kid. He participated in amateur boxing for countless years and had professed impact on the young. If there ever was a role model, trainer Vic was it. Zimet will be missed sorely by all members. The ten count tolled for Vic and other departed members.

Lou Raino spoke briefly on the committee meeting — it was passed through that former middleweight contender Eugene “Silent” Hairston, the impaired boxer who fought and beat such notables as Kid Gavilan, Paddy Young, and recently departed Paul Pender, would receive a special, hearing impaired phone. The special phone is similar to a small typewriter whereas the person can see the voice recognition on a small screen. Speaking of Gavilan, money was raised for the Kid to get him some clothes.

The members attending the meeting were fewer in number due to the fact that the weather outside was cold — hovering around 12 degrees. However, with the Jones -Ruiz bout looming, historian Sal Rappa told a tale of former light heavyweight champion Tommy Loughran when he stepped into the ring to face the reigning heavyweight champion Primo Carnera.

Rappa had met Jack Dempsey at his restaurant in Manhattan in 1964 and was introduced to Loughran, who was sitting at a table. Rappa had heard about a story of the 184lb guy taking on a 260lb hulk in Miami but wanted to hear if it was true or not. This was a time to confront the participant of the bout, and a chance to meet one of the finest scientists ever known to boxing.

This was around 1934 and Carnera, a big muscular Italian, could knock you out in close but never could extend his jab with damaging effect. The strategy on Loughran’s part was to clove himself in garlic so that the champion could, or would not like to step inside. The plan worked for a while ,at least for a couple of rounds, but by then the effect of the garlic wore off and Carnera craved for the smell. At the end of the third round Loughrans corner was trying to get the taste out of the fighters mouth before he would get knocked out. Loughran would then run around and jab for the remainder of the bout, losing a unanimous decision. The incident after the third round could be seen on film. It was the only time in history garlic was used to ward off an opponent!

Also, Ring 8 donated a Ring to IS 174, which will incorporate boxing as one of there core programs. The Eugene T. Maleska Intermediate School will run boxing and teach those kids to ward off the bullies. The corner pads of the ring will be marked “Ring 8.”

Back to remembering Vic Zimet. Trainer Vic was a hard nosed old fashioned type trainer who just does not exist anymore. He had a gentlemanly side yet was strict with regimen. As historian Mike Silver put it best, Vic was a “down and out” contributor to thousands of youngsters and knew the inside out the art and science of boxing. Those who rubbed conversation with Vic always knew they were getting knowledge from the best. Zimet trained Al “Bummy” Davis, Bernie “Schoolboy” Friedkin, Billy Daniels, and David Sears. When pressed by legendary trainer and good friend Ray Arcel in the 70’s to train a budding star by the name of Roberto Duran — Vic relented and stated his heart was with the youngsters, amateur boxing, and teaching. TRUFAN was fortunate enough to interview Vic last August and learned a whole new lesson to how this game works.

Better jabs: Juan Laporte and friend Ponce were on hand to reintroduce the Spanish Gloves. In its heyday in the 70’s, Spanish Gloves helped produce a fighter like Juan. Derek Leif was filming documentary on the club. He stated he will edit this summer . . .

Elks Club Golden Glove dates are as follows:

Thursday, February 27, 2003

Thursday, March 6, 2003