Secunda’s top arm-wrestlers will just have to aim for the next World Champs
“Even if, by chance, we are allowed into the USA by September, we do not have time to look for sponsors,” explained Oosthuizen.
SECUNDA – Their plans to take part in the World Arm-wrestling Championship in September is currently off the books for two young men from Secunda.
Ryno “Witblits” Oosthuizen (33) and Ludwig Schnettler (26) were invited to the International Federation of Arm-wrestling (IFA) World Champs that is scheduled to take place in America this year.
“The Covid-19 pandemic and the lockdown have turned our plans upside down.
“Even if, by chance, we are allowed into the USA by September, we do not have time to look for sponsors,” explained Oosthuizen.
“We cannot expect sponsors to go on a maybe.”
Schnettler, who has not attended a world championship before, is obviously disappointed, but not despondent.
“We will just have to practice and stay in shape for the next championship,” he said.
This draughtsman grew up in a house full of arm-wrestlers and learned to love the sport from childhood.
Oosthuizen on the other hand, is a known competition on the international circuit. He has throughout the years competed in seven such tournaments.
Both these athletes are considered among the country’s best arm-wrestlers.
They are part of a pro-squad of eight of South Africa’s finest, called the Mega Top 8 who tackles each other at national competitions.
Oosthuizen and Schnettler are the only ones who have not yet lost a match this year.
Oosthuizen is also a decorated arm-wrestling referee.
“Since the lockdown, national tournaments have also been cancelled until further notice, but fortunately we are again allowed to practice,” said Oosthuizen.
They train against each other at home. This includes practicing their grip and technique, as well as gym work to build their strength.
According to Oosthuizen, arm-wrestling has recently been accepted as an accredited sport and the IFA has several plans for development, involving more youngsters and advancing the sport in South Africa.
“The IFA aims to bring the next World Championship to South Africa,” said Oosthuizen.
