Three Minto athletes to represent Canada at world kickboxing championships

MINTO – Three local athletes who will represent Canada at the WAKO Junior World Kickboxing Championships in Italy this fall have been recognized by Minto council for their accomplishments.

Weston Dirksen, Grayson Veitsch and Bart Llamido, all members of Rise Combat and Fitness in Mount Forest, were honoured by council on July 14.

Mayor Dave Turton congratulated the athletes on behalf of council “for their outstanding accomplishments and for representing our community with excellence on provincial, national and international stages.”

He added, “We are proud of the commitment, perseverance and sportsmanship they have demonstrated, and we are honoured to support them as they continue to pursue excellence and represent our community with pride on the international stage.”

Dirksen heads to Italy with a competitive resume that includes more than 20 bouts, two national championships, two Ontario Winter Games championships and a second-degree black belt in taekwondo.

Despite being one of the newest members of the Rise Fight Team, Veitsch earned selection to Team Canada through what his coaches describe as “exceptional determination and rapid success in competition.”

Llamido is also a two-time national champion and bronze medallist at the North American Open.

“We are extremely proud of these three athletes and everything they have accomplished,” Rise Combat and Fitness officials stated on social media following the council meeting.

“Their hard work, dedication and countless hours of training have earned them the opportunity to represent Canada on the world stage.”

The WAKO Junior World Kickboxing Championships will be held in Jesolo, Italy, from Sept. 18 to 27.

According to WAKO Canada’s website, the WAKO world championships is “the largest and most prestigious competitive global event for young athletes.” 

The website notes the event will draw over 3,000 elite athletes from over 80 countries, representing every continent.