Grapplers Go Global

Local grapplers to represent Hawaii on the Mainland and Australia.

Molokai wrestlers Jireh Torres-Umi, Kawika Kaahanui, and Leya Justina Luafalemana have been selected to represent Molokai and the state of Hawaii in a National tournament. They will be part of Team Hawaii, traveling to Fargo, North Dakota for the National Championships July 18 – 27.

Torres-Umi and Kaahanui will also be on the United States National team and travel to Sydney, Australia for an international tournament.

The three recognized wrestlers are looking for sponsors who are willing to invest in these exciting opportunities. A major source of the funding comes from family, friends, and local businesses; the cost to attend the Nationals is $1,800, and the Australian International is $3,800 per person. This donation will include airfare, lodging, uniforms, food, and tournament fees.

Help these local stand-outs have unforgettable life-experiences by sponsoring them on their athletic adventures.

Laufalemana must purchase her $900 airfare by May 9, and asks that any donations go to HUWA , Attn: Team Hawaii, PO Box 30582, Honolulu, HI 96820.

Send donations for Torres-Umi and Kaahanui to; Farmer Wrestling Club,  P.O. Box 53, Ho`olehua, HI 95729. If you would like to sponsor only one athlete, please specify which athlete; otherwise the funds will be equally divided.

These grapplers and their ohana offer a mahalo nui loa to all.