Calista Espinosa’s first time representing Canada on the world wrestling stage proved to be a most memorable one.
The 15-year-old from Richmond has captured bronze at the Pan American Cadet Championships in Lima, Peru. She secured a spot on the podium by rallying to defeat her American opponent in the third place match with a pin.
Competing in her 40 kg weight class, Espinosa had opened the competition with a convincing v victory on points (8-0) — before losing a very close and somewhat disputable match to a Peru opponent in the semi-finals.
On top of the medal, Espinosa was also named Canada’s flag bearer at the Opening Ceremonies.
She had earned the opportunity to represent her country after an outstanding showing at the Cadet Canadian Championships in Calgary this spring, where she won gold and also captured the National Team Trials a day later.
Her national team status also meant extensive fundraising to not only compete in Peru but also Cadet Worlds, slated for the Eurasian country of Georgia in September. Among her many sponsors was FH Black & Co which stepped up to match all her donations ($3,820). More information on her support and journey can be seen on her website — gocaligo.wix.com
Espinosa trains out of Coast Wrestling, with sessions in Burnaby and Coquitlam, under coach Frank Mensah.
