By ADAM JACKSON
Kelsey Raab doesn’t let her age get in the way of anything.
The WCHS wrestler is making headlines by medaling in all of her competitions so far this season — while competing against older girls.
The 15-year-old wrestler won bronze in a Saskatoon tournament, silver in a Wetaskiwin tournament, in addition to gold and bronze in two tournaments in Calgary. She has been wrestling since Grade 7.
“I’m feeling really good about it, I’m wrestling at a different level,” said Raab.
This isn’t surprising for her skill level, but this year she is at the bottom of the totem pole, so to speak, as she is competing against girls in grades 11 and 12.
Raab’s success hasn’t come easy though. She trains four times a week after school, totaling almost seven-and-a-half hours split between Wetaskiwin Composite High School team and the Strathcona Wrestling Club.
The dedication to her sport shown by Raab was obvious in her plans for Christmas break. She attended a technical training camp in Sherwood Park to help with her all-around abilities.
Raab claims that her success is a direct result of her coaches and supporters. “It’s hard doing it all by myself, so their help is appreciated.”
Her next competition is Jan. 8 and 9 in Kamloops, BC. To prepare, she must shed some weight from Christmas and get down to 70 kg from 72 kg to make the proper weight category.