Erne Wrestling Club sent three wrestlers along with coach Alex Edgar to Manchester this weekend where they showed their grit and determination once again.
Naoise McManus from the Enniskillen area, Ben Edgar and Jamie Edgar, both from the Omagh area, entered the British Championships for the first time and all three demonstrated great skill in the top tournament of the season for them.
Naoise took the silver medal and Ben secured the bronze in very tough fields while Jamie, their most improved wrestler, came up short this time but continues to demonstrate the technical skills to be reckoned with in the very near future, finished in seventh place.
These wrestlers put the work in training every week at least three times per week and it shows as they progress through the ranks of one of the toughest sports in the world.
Coach Alex and one of the team mum’s, Carol, who keeps everyone on track, travelled with the team where they met up with other national squad members.
Coach Stuart Baker, the National coach, and coach TJ Baker were on hand to give any additional support needed on the day and it is always greatly appreciated.
The stage is set and the pressure is on for two of the clubs more experienced wrestlers, Darragh Love and Ivan Enchev, who will be taking part in the British Senior championships in June.
This will be a big event for Darragh as he will be stepping up to the senior ranks for this, even though he still qualifies for the Junior event for another two years.
Darragh has earned this shot as he continues to develop towards the highest levels in wrestling.
Ivan is expected to be very strong in the championships as no one has been able to get the better of him, from Britain or Ireland, over the past year.
Ivan has dominated every event he has taken part in and should continue this path barring any injuries. The training and preparation these two put in is impressive. Athletes from other sports regularly attend sessions at the club to avail of the opportunity to train with these high level athletes.
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