Bermuda Wushu Team Traveling To Texas
The Bermuda Sanshou Association [BSA] has assembled a team of seven athletes, including four males and three females, to compete in the 11th Pan American Wushu Championships from August 11 to August 14 in Lubbock, Texas.
A spokesperson said, “The team consists of young athletes Zain Philpott and Keanu Wilson, who will be competing in their first Pan American championship, and veterans Sentwali Woolridge and Jermal Woolridge, who will both be defending their Pan American titles claimed two years ago in Costa Rica.
“Talia Iris brings a wealth of experience on the female side and is hoping to go one further than her sliver place finish two years ago in Costa Rica . She is joined by teammates Krista Dyer who competed at last year’s World Wushu Championships and first time competitor Chaquita Simmons.
“The team will be coached by reigning Pan American medalist Khalid Pitcher. Technical Director Oscar Lightbourne will serve as a judge for another consecutive year.
“Notable missing athletes that made up the team two years ago in Costa Rica are Reyel Bowen, Samir Furqan and Garon Wilkinson. Bowen is unable to compete this year due to a combination of an injury and work commitments. Furqan, who competed for the first time at the senior level 2 years ago and finished 5th has recently just graduated from Culinary Arts School in Massachusetts.
“President and Head Coach of BSA Garon Wilkinson, who has been competing in taolu [forms] over the last few years will be missing the this year’s championships due to the pending expansion of his family.
“The team will also be accompanied by Team Lead Nolette Tucker and san shou manager Karlene Antoine. A few observers will join the team with the full contingent consisting of 14 individuals. The bulk of the team departs on August 9th and returns on August 16th.”
