Guangzhou, China, July 12, 2026: OCA Director Wissam Trkmani had some good news for Asia’s wrestling community during a day away from the mat on Sunday.
An afternoon visit to the Olympic museum in the Guangzhou Polytechnic of Sports was followed by a three-stop sightseeing tour to take in the charm and culture of ancient China and, in particular, Canton.
Dinner was planned for an evening cruise along the spectacular Pearl River, including several landmarks from Guangzhou’s hosting of the Asian Games in 2010, but before that came the brief welcome speeches.
Mr. Trkmani, Director of OCA Family Relations and Development Programmes Department, said the OCA/United World Wrestling Asian Wrestling Youth Camp and Course for Courses had been three years in the planning.
“Our first discussions took place during the Coaches and Referees Development Programme in Uzbekistan three years ago. We said we wanted to do something for the athletes and we have finally made it here,” he told the 62 athletes and 30 coaches from 30 National Olympic Committees, along with UWW experts.
“Now we are looking for a long-term collaboration with United World Wrestling, so this is good news for the sport of wrestling in Asia.”
Regarding the sightseeing tour, he said that the OCA was keen to offer the athletes and coaches a glimpse of Guangzhou to see the culture and history of China.
“This camp is about much more than the sport and about the training. We want to show you some of the host city so that you will take home lots of memories and friendships,” he added.
The camp, which opened on July 8, continues for three more days, with a closing ceremony set for Wednesday, July 15.
