Erne wrestler Enchev wins British National gold medal

Ivan dominated the 79kg group of 16 wrestlers in what was surely the outstanding wrestler performance of the day.

The highest level of wrestlers in the country, who hail from all over the world took part but couldn’t match the skills of Ivan.

In his four matches en route to the Championship Ivan demonstrated absolute control which in one day is an incredible feat of strength and stamina.

Darragh Love also took part in his first National championship at senior level, still only 18.

Ironically, in the random draw for matches, he faced his teammate and training partner, Ivan.

Darragh wrestled well but Ivan took the win.

Fortunately for Darragh, under the rule system in wrestling, if you lose a match and your opponent goes on to the final, you are brought back into the tournament in the repecharge system.

Ivan did go to the final so Darragh faced another of Ivan’s defeated opponents. Unfortunately, this was another very experienced, high level senior wrestler that Darragh couldn’t get past just yet.

This opponent went on to take the bronze medal so this means that Darragh faced two of the top seniors in the country. Darragh is on a great trajectory for success at senior level and time will show that his efforts and dedication will prove fruitful.

Ivan and Darragh have the benefit of the highest level of training together at Erne Wrestling Club so many quality wrestlers and grapplers want to be a part of this.

People of all levels can get involved at the club and are always welcome. A great opportunity for off-season athletes from different sports avail of some of the best fitness and movement training in the world.

The club trains on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evening as well as an open mat session on Sunday mornings at the Southwest Academy of Sport in Irvinestown.

You can get in contact via Facebook and keep an eye out for their summer programme being posted soon.