LadySports ::: CANDICE LeRAE

by Shiai Mata

A few short weeks ago, Candice LeRae was unknown outside of a small but enthusiastic circle of fans. But now, thanks to her last-minute addition to the APW/PGWA CHICK FIGHT live event, this green eyed, blond Canadian Goddess has found herself facing an international audience! LadySports Online is proud to be the first to present this talented young lady to wrestling fans around the world.

LadySports Online: First of all, thank you for taking the time to answer a few questions, Candice.

Candice LeRae: It's my pleasure.

Q: Care to share some of your stats?

A: I'm from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, I'm 5'4" tall and weigh 123 lbs. My birthday is September 29, 1985.

Q: When did you first begin wrestling?

A: 2002

Q: Who influenced you the most in your decision to become a wrestler?

A: Macho Man Randy Savage was the first wrestler that stood out above the rest to me. He had something special about him that made me want to wrestle, too.

Q: What is a typical day of training like for you?

A: I roll, and do a little bit of cardio, then I get into some spots and learn new moves, then I do some hold-to-holds. My absolute favorite thing in life to do at training is to work hold-to-hold!

Q: What holds or moves are you best known for?

A: I love holds...it gives you the opportunity to create the coolest new things! I would say that I'm best at figuring out creative ways to reverse holds. Because I focus so much on doing holds, I would say that that is what I am best known for, escaping them.

Q: Have you ever been injured in the ring?

A: I am very, very fortunate. The worst thing that has ever happened to me is getting shin splints.

Q: Where have you wrestled so far?

A: I have wrestled with the IWC for Bill Anderson and EWF for Jesse Hernandez, and of course now for APW and the PGWA. I haven't held any titles yet, but hopefully someday...!

Q: What is so special about this sport for you?

A: It's my first love and is the only thing I want to do in life. Everything about it is bliss, and I pray that I can wrestle until I'm too old to wrestle anymore.

Q: What are your fans like?

A: They are people who appreciate women as wrestlers, not as mere eye candy. They respect me for my ring abilities, and not just for my looks.

Q: What comments do you hear the most from people when they learn you are a wrestler?

A: People first react to my size, because I'm not very big. But after I wrestle I usually get very good compliments are earn a lot of respect.

Q: In your opinion, what are some of your thoughts about women participating in the sport?

A: Women can be just as good as men at anything. Some really set their minds to wrestling and come out being just as good as the best of the men. The one's that actually participate in the wrestling part of the sport...rather than just being T&A... are usually particularly tough women.

Q: What's your most marked characteristic as a person and as a wrestler?

A: As an individual, that I'm easygoing. As a wrestler, that I'm adaptable.

Q: What has been your most memorable wrestling moment?

A: The first time I ever watched professional wrestling. I was at a family get-together, and all of the kids were watching it on TV. I remember seeing Hulk Hogan wrestling Bad News Brown. Just the way the fans were so involved and how something I had never seen before excited me so was intriguing. I wanted to know more about what I saw on television, which brought me to watching Randy Savage and ultimately wanting to become a professional wrestler. That first time, seeing in on TV, remains my most memorable moment so far.

Q: What would you do to make the sport better?

A: Put more of the focus on "Old School" styles and attitudes.

Q: And what would you be doing if you weren't a wrestler?

A: Teaching children.

Q: What other interests do you have?

A: Baseball and music are my other favorite things.

Q: What's your average day like outside of the ring?

A: I wear comfortable clothes...jeans and T-shirts. I don't eat anything fancy, just hamburgers and sandwiches. I like listening to classic rock...Van Halen, Guns 'n Roses, AC/DC.

Q: How would you describe yourself as you hope others see you?

A: I have a tendency to be somewhat quiet, but it doesn't last long once I get into the ring! I am willing to help and be helped, and I respect my peers. I usually like to earn things, but I understand that when life hands you an opportunity, you have to take it. My biggest strength is that I am willing to learn. The only way I can improve is to learn from others and learn from myself.

Q: Any regrets?

A: Only that I couldn't get into wrestling sooner than I did!

Q: And lastly, your personal motto?

A: Be true to myself and never give up.

Ladysports: Thanks very much and we wish you the best of luck.