Wrestling: Non-stop Grasmere

Three events in three days and some of the best wrestling of the decade thrilled the crowds at Grasmere, Newcastleton and Silloth.

Midge-weight Chris Walton of Haltwhistle showed skill and composure beyond his years to win the two Under-12 Years events and Super Heavyweight, 23st Robert McNamara showed his immense power to flick over anyone who stood in front of him to retain his titles at Grasmere and Newcastleton.

Between those weight extremes, scores of wrestlers put in above-par performances in a year when match practice is in short supply.

The Bretons and Scots who attended in good numbers had the edge in match fitness and this was reflected in two of the best performances.

Rab Clark of Glasgow was awarded the Guinness Trophy for the best wrestling performance at Grasmere - and no wonder.

Not only did he retain his 11st World Championship he went on to win the 12 stone category.

Grasmere was a wonderful place for wrestling with a bigger ring and a 7,000 crowd gathering round.

It was non-stop action with all the competitors going for their chips.

Clark was best of all, but Adam Threlfall proved his credentials in the strongest 13 stone field.

Another delighted competitor was Mark Lowry, who gained his first Grasmere win in his own inimitable style, splattering bodies around with the buttock and occasionally hiping for variety.

The Under-18 Championship was held as part of Grasmere and holder and favourite Russell Housby was pushed all the way.

His old rival, Kendal's Andrew Bentham took a sharp first fall in the final was was eventually worn down by Housby with his powerful controlled syle.

Ponteland wrestler Richard younger dislocated his wrist in the Under 18 Years at Grasmere.

Before that he had won the Under-15s at both Newcastleton and Grasmere in fine style and must have fancied his chances for

the championship at Silloth before his hopes ended up in a sling.

It opened the way for David Barnes to take the title.