Hidden away on the Sutton’s Industrial Estate in Winchelsea Beach, wrestlers from across southern England train twice a week to take on the world. The noise at the Black Harbour Club is deafening as the wrestlers slam into each other and the floor, to even louder shouts of encouragement from outside the ring.
This week’s Ryecast is all about the Extreme Academy of Wrestling. You can hear the podcast by clicking here, plus there’s a chance to see the wrestlers in action in Hastings this weekend.
The club is run by Stu Allen – or The Dominator – who explains why he is so passionate about wrestling and helping others to achieve their dreams, plus how the sport has helped him deal with addiction and stress. It’s very different from his last full time job as a mortician.
The club opened in Winchelsea Beach last year, with twenty plus wrestlers training on Tuesday evening as well as Sunday afternoon.
Two wrestlers also share their reasons for taking part. Luke Sibson – or F L X – wants to entertain, get fit, and represent the LGBT+ community. When he’s not in the ring he’s a teacher and also hosts his own podcast dedicated to the Heartstopper tv show. Taylor Leigh – or Lupo – has big ambitions and plenty of success. He lives for wrestling at the weekend and explains how taking part in the sport has got him through the worst of times.
You can find more about the Extreme Academy of Wrestling on their Facebook page, and Stu also has has his own podcast. Just search for Stiff Right Hand wherever you get your podcasts.
This link takes you direct to Ryecast: The Wrestlers of Winchelsea Beach or visit www.ryecast.org.uk.
Image Credits: Tony Ham / Academy of Extreme Wrestling , James Stewart , Academy of Extreme Wrestling .