Byron retires from wrestling to pursue safari dream
Newcastle’s Byron Botha retires from wrestling after over a decade, setting his sights on becoming a safari guide while thanking his wrestling family. read more here:
After more than a decade of grappling on the mat and proudly representing KwaZulu-Natal, 19-year-old Byron Botha has decided to call time on his wrestling career.
The Newcastle youngster hung up his boots at the KZN Championships in Glencoe last Saturday and is now setting his sights on his lifelong dream of becoming a safari guide.
The soft-spoken teenager started wrestling at just six years old and says the sport taught him far more than just how to win matches.
“What drew me to wrestling and kept me passionate for so long was seeing the self-improvement,” he said.
“The sport requires you to put in effort yourself, and seeing each year what I accomplished and what I learned was very satisfying and validating.”
Among his proudest moments are winning a bronze medal at the 2019 South African Championships and an unforgettable victory at the Johnny Reitz tournament.
“I was wrestling a Namibian and the odds were against me – I had injuries and little practice. I was already losing on points, but right before it was over, I overpowered my opponent, pinned him, and won by a fall.”
Byron believes the discipline gained from wrestling will serve him well in his new career.
“As a safari guide, you need to adapt quickly, be level-headed, and have patience. Wrestling gave me those qualities and allowed me to master them.”
Becoming a game ranger is a dream he has carried since childhood.
“I always loved travelling and being outdoors. I knew a nine-to-five desk job was not for me.”
Although excited for the future, he admits he will miss the competitive edge of wrestling.
“I’ll always miss it – I loved every bit of it and will forever be grateful for what wrestling gave me. But all good things must come to an end, and I’m ready to embrace this new chapter.”
He also expressed gratitude to those who supported him along the way.
“I want to thank the Newcastle Cougars Wrestling Club – the coaches and management – for everything they did for me. I’m going to miss my wrestling family.”
To young athletes starting out, Byron’s advice is simple: “Keep going, even if you’re losing. It’s about not giving up, always doing your best, and improving yourself. Sooner or later, you’ll be satisfied with the results and proud of what you’ve achieved.”
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