If you’ve recycled a chest of drawers or a bicycle at the Ashburton Resource Recovery Park’s re-use shop recently, then chances are you have helped Ashburton man Ford Gerbes get to the world kickboxing champs in Ireland later this year.

Ford needs to raise $6400 for his trip with the New Zealand kickboxing team, and was recently donated $2000 from the re-use shop, which is operated by EnviroWaste Services Limited as part of its solid waste management contract with the Ashburton District Council.

It is the first of three $2000 donations the re-use shop plans to make to good causes this year.

Items that are brought into the re-use shop for recycling are sold to the public; items include household furnishings and wares like glasses and mugs which are still in good condition. There are also bicycles, sports equipment and coats.

Ford’s name was put forward for consideration as a recipient after his selection and fundraising efforts were highlighted in the Ashburton Courier community newspaper.

He said he was delighted to accept the money, which was a big boost to his fundraising account.

Ford rises most days at 3.30am to train before going to work; he trains again later in the day, after spending time with his family. He competes in regular events.

As well as kickboxing, he competes in mixed martial arts, boxing and mauy thai, which is often referred to as Thai boxing.

He also set up a Fight-Fit Fitness gym at the Hampstead Rugby Club grounds two years ago, offering basic fighting drills and circuit fitness training for others. Recently he has started a class for juniors.

Ford said his own gym work prepared his body for the lateral and explosive movements needed for the sport, which was also about mental toughness.

He has been doing kickboxing for 11 years and considers himself lucky to be able to compete, especially after surviving a serious car crash.

People interested in applying for a donation should inquire at the re-use shop at the Ashburton Resource Recovery Park.