Constants came from as far away as Mexico and California to compete in the amateur boxing match held at the county fairgrounds last weekend.

Of the 30 contestants that boxed in three weight classes, about a third were from Haywood, including Heath Parton of Waynesville, who made it to the semi-finals.

"It takes the wind out of you," said Parton as he finished up his Saturday night bout.

Despite getting in a ring where all take a few hard hits, and most get eliminated without taking home any prize money, Parton was pleased with his first experience.

"I met a lot of new people and it was a new experience," said the recent Southwestern Community College graduate who is seeking a position in radiology. He credited his friend and manager Rob Sims of Waynesville who encouraged him to participate ...