Robert ‘Bobby Whale’ Smellie from the Caribbean Wrestling Entertainment is keeping the sport of wrestling alive in St Mary.

Smellie, who hails from the parish, lived in the United States for 39 years where he got involved in the sport becoming a professional wrestler for 35 years. On his return to Jamaica in 2011 he started training persons and began engaging in wrestling matches through the Social Development Commission (SDC) Wag Water Valley Development Area Committee, since 2013.

Smellie lauded the SDC for the level of recognition they have gained since going across the country demonstrating wrestling techniques which he said “the people love and enjoys”. He explained that they have been training wrestlers from St Mary and the neighbouring Portland, free of cost.

“I work with the local community and the police in the area and we have seen a reduction in crime. We hope this will help to stop the brain drain in the country and the talent in the country to remain” Smellie said.

“I returned here to try and make a difference with the youths in my community to find a way to create jobs, not necessarily to leave but to build the community and develop themselves,” he added.

Smellie who has been wrestling since high school said he is pleased with the level of interest and excitement which Jamaicans are showing in the sport.

“It’s like a big exciting thing in the air now,” he said.

Smellie said he plans on bringing in international wrestlers to heighten the flavour.

There were two wrestling matches – Flying Dagger versus Triple J which ended in a draw and Ebony Assian versus Bobby Whale where Ebony Assian won. Bobby Whale in conceding told Ebony Assian that they will meet again Easter Monday at St Mary Agricultural Show where he will turn the table.