Ponoka’s Kelsey Raab will head to Baku, Azerbaijan Aug. 21 to 27 to represent Canada in the Cadet World Championships organized by FILA. She will compete at freestyle wrestling.
Raab placed second at nationals recently, but the first-place winner was unable to compete, so she was bumped up to take the challenge, “I’m ecstatic, I’m nervous as heck but I can’t wait!” Raab exclaimed.
The trip is not cheap however. “It’s going to cost me $7,000,” so Raab will be fundraising over the next few weeks, starting at the Soapbox Derby on June 9 at the concession stands.
She will also handle the concession stand at a slo-pitch tournament July 13 to 15. The money will go directly to her training, entrance fees, flights and for equipment. Raab took a moment to thank residents for their support so far.
“Ponoka’s really supportive of me as it is. It’s nice to get that hometown support,” she stated.
By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye