Marais’ redemption shot in Bulgaria
Marais Hattingh from Ion Baciu Wrestling Gymnasium in Polokwane is representing the country at the 45th World Junior Wrestling Championships.
POLOKWANE – The championship is hosted in Sofia, Bulgaria between August 15-21.
Polokwane Observer spoke to Marais and coach Jan Roets before they travelled abroad.
Marais said his participation at the African Continental Wrestling Championship, which was held in El Jadida, Morocco in May, will be handy in his quest for the global medal.
He is one of 600 wrestlers from various parts of the world who will stake their claim for medals. “The championship is a great opportunity for me to compete at a high level. I am happy and more than ready. I trained hard for this championship and I hope for good results. In Morocco I was knocked out in the first round but at the world championship I want to go an extra mile.”
He explained he prepared well for the event and that he cannot wait for his first match. “The preparations for the event have been good. I trained with two wrestlers from America and we were able to help each other and improve each other’s techniques.”
Roets will be in Marias’s corner at the championship and shared the young wrestler is eager to compete. “We have prepared and trained well for the event. I have no doubt that he will do well.”
