Super 8 Ambassador: Saori Yoshida
Sunday, January 25, 2015 - 08:43 By United World Wrestling Press
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DOB: October 5, 1982
Where: Tsu, Japan
Highest Accomplishment: 3x Olympic Champion, 12x World Champion
Weight: 55KG
Height: 1.56M
Competes: Japan (JPN)
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How and when did you get started in wrestling?
I was very fortunate because there was dojo (training hall) near my home. My father was coaching at the dojo and I think it was natural for me to start. And I was young when I started, only 3.
How do people react when you tell them you are a wrestler?
It was funny, they would all say, “ Oh, you don’t look it!”
What’s your best memory of wrestling?
Carrying my father on my shoulders after winning the 2012 London Olympics. I had carried my other coach the first two times, but for winning my third Gold Medal at Olympics
Who has been the biggest inspiration during your life in wrestling?
I think it I would need to be former athlete and world champion Seiko Yamamoto. She is now coaching in the United States.
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What’s your favorite thing about wrestling?
There are many things about wrestling that I appreciate -- I don’t think I can choose just one thing! I like winning!
What does being part of the Olympic family mean for women’s wrestling?
The Olympics is a dream and goal for every female wrestler.
What are your hopes for the future of women’s wrestling?
I want wrestling to remain and stay in the Olympic Games forever. I also want it to become as popular a discipline as the other sports in the Games. The Olympic Games are the dream of every female wrestler
Share your thoughts.
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