I get to compete in the Olympics tomorrow which I think is pretty cool. You can probably find my draw online at www.fila-wrestling.com.
I haven’t looked so I don’t know who I compete against first. The fila website will also have all matches but you will need to pay $5 to watch for one day. CBC said they may televise my first match live in their prime time show on Aug 13 in Calgary. Apparently that is when their feature story about me will also run. They spent a lot of time getting footage so it will be interesting to see which parts they use.
I like getting comments on my blog. Thanks to all who wrote in. For a while it seemed like I was writing to myself.
I will be at Canada house having a beer with Sarah, Elana and Murray tomorrow night. I can already taste it – seems like forever since I got to have a few drinks. I may have a bit too much in order to compensate for past abstinence. Spectating on Aug 15 may not be that fun but I will try. Perhaps the beer stands on every corner will help.
Your story is amazing and very inspiring. It makes me very proud to be Canadian. I am a long-term expat living in Beijing, I have just told your story to Chinese colleagues but they don't seem to believe it's possible for an Olympic athlete to have a full-time job and a real life outside of sports.
Enjoy the rest of your stay in Beijing!
All the best!! I'm watching with great interest>
Doc
Congratulations Ari on your supreme dedication to your goal!!
It is a long road you have travelled from our Grade 1 class!!
You deserve a GOLD medal!
Sincere best wishes
Isobel Montgomery
Hey Ari!
Lister told me you were going to the big show! I just wanted to wish you the best of luck. Have fun and kick arse! Even if you don't remember me, I sure as heck remember you!
PS- I've been cheering for you since '92 dude! And I'm sure Adi Yoskovitch would send his regards too, if anybody knew where he was.
Jason Rothstein
Hey Dude,
Just remember our wrestling matches in U of C's wrestling room. If I couldn't turn you, this is not a soul on this planet who can. I know that will inspire confidence.HAHAHAHA
We are cheering you on and are with you in thoughts.
Good luck but just go gettim'
Erik & LinLin
Hey Ari,
Wishing you the best . Congrats and enjoy the ride and oh ya, give em crap!
Hey Ari,
I'm hoping that CBC will play your match today. As I'll be watching it!! Congrats on making it as far as you have.
Hooray for you, Ari! We're all rooting hard for you- even here in Toronto. What an experience you're having.
All the sweeter for the long journey there.
Good Luck Uncle Ari!! =)
Go get 'em Ari!
I think we have figured out how to watch the wrestling on live streaming on the internet…we will be cheering you on, and hope your Olympic experience is everything you dreamed! Your story is an inspiration to all those who think their dreams are denied, to carry on and perhaps for them too, the realization of their dreams will only be delayed. All the best, Jim & Esmé Comfort.
Hi Ari,
I'm Pamela Service's best friend and old roomate. I heard you on the radio recently just before you left for Bejing. Congratulations! I'm following you everyday from the Children's Hospital. Good Luck!
Lisa and Caiden
Wishing you all the best in fulfilling your dream. Will have the TV on all day to see your matches.
Hey there,
Well, I guess today is the big day. All the best…make the most of it. I'm gonna turn on CBC now and hope to get a chance to watch yah. You've come a long way since Warrior (Wisewood) wresting!!!
Sheri