AIBA invited 2 boxers from Guatemala to the 'Road to Baku' program: Central American and Caribbean Games silver medallist Alvaro Vargas and Joselito Aguirre, bronze medallist at the same event last year. Both athletes are still in development but already had a few victories in different international tournaments in 2011. And they expect to perform well at the upcoming AIBA World Boxing Championships.
Joselito Aguirre: "I dream of performing at the Olympics"
When did you start boxing?
I started when I was 15. I used to play football when I was younger.
What is your opinion on Guatemala's participation in international tournaments?
Our country has improved a lot and has demonstrated it in each competition in the recent past.
How often can you train at home and how would you rate your training facilities?
I can train every day in Guatemala in good conditions but not as good as in other countries.
What would be your biggest strength on the ring?
It's my family who gives me strength when I am on the ring.
What is your main goal in boxing?
I dream of performing at the Olympics.
What is your opinion on the AIBA 'Road to Baku' program?
It is a huge opportunity to help us reaching higher goals. The training sessions are perfect, the facilities are great. So are the coaches. But the most important thing is that we can interact with boxers from so many countries.
Alvaro Vargas: "An amazing opportunity"
When did you start boxing?
When I was 15, it was back in 2006.
What is your opinion on Guatemala's participation in international tournaments?
The country starts to get results from its efforts. Everyone should keep us in mind...
How often can you train at home and how would you rate your training facilities?
I practice twice a day and six days a week. The conditions are ok but in comparison to other countries, we are lacking of weightlifting facilities.
What would be your biggest strength on the ring?
God and my family.
What is your main goal in boxing?
If I could win an Olympic medal one day, I'd the happiest on earth.
What is your opinion on the AIBA 'Road to Baku' program?
It is great that AIBA supports and gave us the chance to raise our level and represent our country in this monumental event. It is an amazing opportunity. Everything is perfect.
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