Capstick grapples his way to silver success in Northern Ireland

Wrestler John Capstick with coaches and team-mates

The Horsham-based fighter was the only local wrestler in action in the event last month as three other team-mates that were set to travel, suffered injuries before the event and were forced to pull out.

Capstick, who normally competes in the 61kg class, was recommended to step up to 65kg to get more fights on the day.

But after arriving, he found himself stepping up again into the 70kg for a similar reason.

Having got a bye in the first round, he quickly won his semi-final in the first round of the match.

In the final, Capstick, who is a builder and roofer by trade, was down by two points when he had his opponent in a pin, but ended up losing as the time ran out and he finished second overall.

He said: “I was really pleased to do well in a heavier weight category and fighting with the youngsters.”

He wrestles as part of a Crawley and Horsham club that train at Crawley Martial Arts Academy.

They train on Thursdays at 7pm to 9.15pm and Saturdays from 9am to 11:30am.

New members are welcome and for more information or to have any questions answered, contact John Capstick on 07803 609262.

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