CanAm Wrestling joins Strathmore Stampede

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

For the first time, CanAm Wrestling will be joining the host of activities present at this year’s Strathmore Stampede.

Usually appearing in Strathmore once a month at the Civic Centre with shows to support local causes, the Calgary-based professional wrestling show and wrestling academy will instead be showing off and hosting educational camps on the Agricultural Society grounds during the Stampede. 

“We’re trying to get our name out there and trying to get people to notice we are in your town, we have been in the town for a while (and) we’re here to help your community with any fundraisers that you guys may need,” said CanAm Wrestling owner Otto Gentile.

Three different camps will be offered over the course of the Stampede: one for 6 to 10-years-old, 11 to 15-years-old, and 15-years-and-older.

Every day, mini wrestling matches will also be featured for people to see what CanAm wrestling is and what it’s about.

“What we’re trying to do is, (for) in each category of ages, we want to give away a scholarship to the school. And we’re trying to find some businesses that can support us in doing so,” said Gentile. “It’s going to be three months where you get trained, but somebody doesn’t get this right away. It takes some time (to get the hang of).”

Following the three months of training, most people will need more time to really flesh out their skill as a wrestler, but the odd person may be able to jump straight into performing in shows. 

“Where you really learn is when you start doing the matches and you’re in there competing against other guys and girls. That’s where you get to learn the most,” said Gentile. “Doing this in front of a crowd is really where you find out who you are as a character. Find out who you are as a performer, and your moves become yours.”

Regarding their interactions with the Strathmore Stampede and the Agricultural Society, Gentile had nothing but praise for how they were welcomed to the event and the process for getting involved.

“It’s really cool to be doing something like this. As a wrestler, we don’t get to be in one spot for four days in a row, so I’m really looking forward to letting everybody know what we’re about,” said Gentile. “We want people to realize that CanAm wrestling is more than just a professional wrestling show. We are people that care … We are people who do good for other people.”

Gentile said going forward, returning to participate in the Strathmore Stampede is potentially something he would be excited to do for future years.

Tickets are on sale for the training camp at $25 per day, or $80 for the entire weekend. The only way to get entered to win a scholarship for wrestling training is to enter a mini camp at the Stampede. 

CanAm Wrestling mini camps will be happening at their booth on the general grounds daily during the Stampede from noon to 4 p.m. on July 29 to Aug. 1. 

They will also host a mini wrestling show daily at 4 p.m.