HIGH Impact fighters Charlie Bubb and Tyler Bartimote will test themselves against the best muay thai fighters in the world in May, at the 2014 International Federation of Muay Thai Amateur World Championships in Langkawi, Malaysia.
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The pair will both represent Australia in the under 18 junior category, in their respective divisions.
Bubb made history after he was selected to represent Australia in the 75kg division as the first person to represent his country twice as a junior after competing in Russia in 2012.
The duo will be joined by Renshi Anthony Wharton, who returns to the national set-up as junior mentor, and assistant coach to the seniors after fulfilling the same roles in 2012.
After Australia’s original 27-30kg representative pulled out of the competition Bartimote, as first reserve, took his place in the green and gold.
Wharton’s pride, and excitement in the trio’s achievement was palpable as he spoke among the weights of the Orange’s High Impact Gym, where Wharton trains Bubb and Bartimote, last Thursday.
“It’s pretty amazing, especially for the two guys fighting,” he said.
“For Charlie and me, we sat down at the start of year and wrote down our goals for 2014.
“Getting this job again was one of mine, and I’m very proud to get the chance again.
“Charlie said he wanted to reclaim and defend his ISKA title, and win and defend the WKA title. The other goal for him to was to qualify for worlds, and medal.”
Wharton said while he expects Bubb and Bartimote to do well, to achieve a medal would be nothing short of enormous.
“The standard is so high in these fights, to win a medal would be a massive achievement,” Wharton explained.
“This is the pinnacle. These two are the best fighters in the country for their divisions. And they will be up against the absolute best in the world. Eastern Europe are particularly strong - places like Uzbekistan, Armenia, even Belarus.
“It’ll be tough.”
Bubb paid homage to his mentor, saying he wouldn’t have this opportunity without Wharton.
“Wharto works hard for me,” Bubb said.
“He’s the best junior coach in Australia, with his commitment and everything I wouldn’t be here, and he really deserves the job.”
The trio will fund their own way to Malaysia, and Wharton urged the Orange community to get behind them.
Anyway wishing to donate, or support the trio can contact the High Impact gym.