An athletic competition in Johannesburg, South Africa has turned into a historic and emotional trip for several members of the Concordia Stingers wrestling team.
Former Stinger and 2012 Olympian David Tremblay took a small group of athletes to compete at the Commonwealth Wrestling Championships in South Africa last week. The competition was a good experience, but being in the country for the death of Nelson Mandela and the historic events around honoring his legacy have been extraordinary.
“Everything is going well in South Africa,” said David Tremblay who is serving as the coach on the trip. “The Stingers competed hard in a tough competition and I believe they learned a lot.
“We are now enjoying some down time and are training a little in South Africa. We are also hoping to take part in ceremonies remembering Nelson Mandela.”
At the Commonwealth championships, where many nations including Australia, Canada, England, India, New Zealand, Nigeria, Scotland and South Africa are represented, members of the Stingers did well.
Veronica Keefe finished first in the 72 kilos weight class. It was her second gold medal at an international competition this fall. She was also the winner at the Francophonie Games held in France in September.
“Veronica wrestled great and won the tournament,” said Tremblay. “She was in a round-robin and lost her first match but then won the following two.”
Jordan Steen, the 2013 CIS Rookie of the Year, finished third at 84 kilos. Linda Morais was fifth at 63 kilos and Chris Kinsella took sixth place at 74 kilos.
The Concordia wrestlers will return to Montreal on Dec. 16.
