In a sport that has been viewed as arguably the toughest combat sport with a history spanning as old as human civilization it’s hard for outsiders to understand that a 66-year-old person can still compete at an elite world championship level.
Sandy has been a member of the South African Masters Wrestling team for many years competing at many international tournaments and world championships. This year will stand out as his greatest year as he claimed his maiden world title.
On route to the claiming the world title he fought world class and internationally acclaimed opponents in Edward Maselko of Poland and Gaetano Dizebba of the USA. He fought his heart out at one stage during the bout he had blood streaming from his nose but continued wrestling with grit and determination that is rarely seen and unimaginable for a 66-year-old.
It was an immensely proud moment for each of the South African team members witnessing him receive his gold medal on the greatest stage in world wrestling.
On the same day, Sandy also claimed the silver medal in the Greco Roman event. As a younger member of the South African Masters team there is no greater role model than Sandy MacDonald, he is a dedicated training partner and team player on and off the mat. -- Donovan Davel, team mate.
(Sandy was hoofsub van Die Transvaler.)
