Richmond wrestlers Arjan and Jagroop Bhullar are facing the biggest test of their careers this weekend.
Arjan is off to Orlando, Florida to compete in the Pan American games for the final Olympic qualifier spots and Jagroop is in Europe to represent England at the European qualifiers.
Arjan received a bye to the Canadian Olympic trials as he was the defending national champion in his 120 kg class. He won the Canadian trials and must now place in the top two positions at this international event in order to go to the Summer Olympic Games in London.
Prior to 1996, an athlete only had to qualify from their country. Wrestling, being the most competitive sport in the world, could not be accommodate such a large number of athletes. Therefore, further international qualifiers procedures were set.
The Pan American Olympic qualifiers are the next step. Approximately 20 countries from North, Central, and South America will send one wrestler in each weight class. Only the top two will qualify.
Similar qualifiers are taking place all over the world. Jagroop will be compet-ing in one in Europe in the 84 kg class representing England.
The two cousins grew up like siblings and have been wrestling since childhood. Their success is credited to their rivalry, friendship and support.
"Everything I have accomplished and the success I have had is because of my cousin," Arjan stated.
For those that are not able to qualify at these events, there are two more chances. The next will be in China and two weeks later another one in Finland. The top three in each one will also be going to London.
"I have beaten every single wrestler at one time or another that is going to be competing there. I just need to be ready on that day and beat them all one more time," said Arjan.
"Like always, my family will be travelling with me down there and cheering on Team Canada throughout the competition. Team Canada is looking ready to do some serious damage out there!"
Four years ago, Arjan came very close to making it to the Beijing Olympics. "Last time I just fell short but this time I will not return empty handed," he promises.
The competition from Florida on Sunday can be seen live by webcast at www.trackwrestling.com
