Although I am not currently surrounded by reporters and photographers, I still feel it my responsibility to inform all of those who support me that I will not be competing this weekend at the Sunkish Kids International Open in Chandler, Arizona. My injury to the upper-right intercostal has not progressed in the manner that would be fit for competition, and at the level the tournament holds standard, to compete at anything below 100% full ability would be rolling the dice, and the sport of wrestling lends itself to higher risk factors than a mere game.

I do believe with the appropriate amount of rest and treatment, the injury will subside, and I will be able to hopefully soon resume training at a very high level. But this is extremely disappointing, as this tournament has been a primary objective for me as a launching pad, one in which I had been preparing for since July. The idea that I will not be able to use this outlet as a viable platform to re-introduce myself to the sport bothers me greatly.

But as I say, I have hope that the status of my physical capability with return to full capacity, and I will be able to train once again, with my all, and aim for November at the NYAC Holiday Tournament. I want to first and foremost thank God for keeping me healthy enough to concentrate and train, and although I may not be competing in the Sunkist, He has still blessed me dearly by allowing me the ability to train at a higher level than I ever have before, and hopefully, He will see me through the rest of my athletic endeavors, especially the ones on the horizon.

I'd like to thank everyone who has supported me in all of this, and anyone who has shown interest. Please stay on board and in touch, because by no means do I intend for this to remain a major set-back, as I still feel that I am capable, with God's grace, of making a deep impression on the sport of Greco-Roman wrestling this year, chasing after the competition and successes that I desire very much.

Thanks,

Timmy Hands

ICWA