Get the Entwistle boys to the Oceania Judo Championships

My name is James Entwistle. I am the third eldest in seven children and currently carrying out a bachelor of applied science in health. I have been competing in Judo alongside my brother Sam for over ten years. We are both multiple time New Zealand champions. We have represented New Zealand on a number of occasions but this year something special happened and for the first time ever we have both been selected for the same tour. This is the Oceania championships to held in Noumea, New Caledonia. We have both competed and won the gold medal in the Oceania championships at junior level before but this time we are fighting at senior level both in our respective weight classes. Sam as an under 60kg fighter and myself as an under 66kg fighter. This is due to our successful run in 2017 both winning every competition necessary to gain selection.

With this special honour comes a financial burden. Judo is the greatest sport on the planet although here in NZ we struggle for funding therefore it is up to each competitor to pay their own way. These costs can escalate very quickly and especially when multiplied by two. Sam and I both know what it means to work hard and to strive for the very best. Taking away some of the financial burden will allow us to focus our minds on the task at hand and represent this country to our best ability.