Armwrestle way to state champ wins

Auburn’s Oz Calgar and Homebush’s Charlie Andricich have won firsts and a third in the state respectively in the 95kg division.
There is no age limit so Charlie, at 60 years young, has managed a major milestone competing against much younger players, to win his first ever medal.
He has also competed in the World Championships in Malaysia, where there are weight and age divisions, and came a very creditable fifth.
Recently retired, Charlie explained that he has always taken fitness seriously and been into weights, boxing and martial arts since he was 17.
“I hadn’t ever considered armwrestling but I joined a gym and the personal trainer was into it and that’s how I got started,” he said.
“But it’s a sport with skills you’ve got to master to avoid injury like any sport.
“Armwrestling is a strength sport but speed, leverage and technique can beat strength.
“I’m now training for the national championships in Melbourne in November and will shed 5kg before then so I can compete in the 90kg division.
“Most days I do some training and it’s so enjoyable with great camaraderie among the group; I thoroughly recommend it.”
Oz, who is the NSW Armwrestling Director, and hosts the training group every Wednesday from 8.30pm at 32 Tallwood Drive, North Rocks, got involved after introducing armwrestling to an Auburn youth group.
“I was president of the group and decided to learn the rules first myself and was told that I was a natural because of my strength and so started competing after that.
“I love how armwrestling is one on one combat and that there is nowhere to hide; it’s technical, powerful and psychological, a challenge but just so enjoyable.”