Tiana Dykstra of 100 Mile Wrestling Club dug deep to earn a silver medal at the 2013 Cadet & Juvenile National Wrestling Championships, held in Saskatoon, Sask. on April 4-7.
This was Dykstra’s first trip to nationals and also her first go-around competing in the Cadet division, designated for wrestlers aged 15-16.
The petite 15-year-old fought a tough match in the final of the 43-kilogram weight class with Jade Dufour of Ontario, who was the 2012 43-kg Cadet division gold medallist.
“It was a hard match. She was really experienced,” says Dykstra. “I tried my best, and even if I didn’t win, it’s still good that I did so well.”
She knows what needs to be done for further success.
“I learned I have to give it 120 per cent and be happy with the outcome.”
Dykstra had a successful season leading up to the national competition, nailing gold at both zones and Western Age Class. She was also a silver medalist at the provincial championship.
Her next challenge is to earn a spot on Team BC, which will compete at the Canada Summer Games in Sherbrooke, Quebec, Aug. 2-17.
Games trials take place early May in Vancouver, with only one Team BC spot available in her division.
