Local ace, Wiehan Wheelan, will be competing at the world cadet wrestling championships in Bosnia during August this year.
Wiehan is just back in the country after competing in the Africa Championships in Egypt in May. This grade-ten scholar from Sarel Cilliers High School proved his mettle on the highest level when he won a bronze medal in the continental championships. Few scholars can say they are third best in Africa.
South Africa entered a four-man team to compete in Greco-Roman style for the national team set to wrestle in Bosnia. More than 50 countries will grapple each other in this gala event; Wiehan will fight in the 63-69 kg weight division.
Wiehan cannot hide his excitement. This is a once-in-a-life-time opportunity. Finally, Wiehan will be able to measure himself against the world’s best. Ten years of blood, sweat and tears at the Northern Natal Rhino wrestling club has finally paid off.
Wrestling as a sport is one of the smaller sports codes in SA. Governmental funding and sponsorship are nearly nonexistent for athletes. Wiehan’s wrestling coach, Steven Brown, wants to appeal to the local public to rally behind Wiehan and help raise the R30 000. Mr Brown also plans to host a wrestling tournament to help raise funds for Wiehan that is needed for the plane ticket and accommodation. Only four South African towns will have the privilege of being represented on this world stage.