Esra, how did you get into armwrestling? Tell, please, about your way in sport.

In 2007 I was encouraged by my teacher of Physical Education I participated in the armwrestling tournament between high schools. And I was champion there.  Later I caught the attention of armwrestling coaches. They told me that I need to obtain a license to participate in official tournaments and then I would become be a very successful athlete. And that day I began to armwrestling and later I took my license! My first contest was in 2008.  At first time I became junior left and right arm Turkey champion, European 2nd became the World 2nd. Next year I became (2009) a juniors European and world champion!

How did you get prepared to Europeans-2016? Do you think your shape was good? Tell us about your training process.

I have a great determination for all competitions; I try my ambition and belief. I have only one purpose – to go to the highest level and then all over the world to listen to our anthem. I must win! I'm working hard for it. I'm doing training five days a week: 2 days training with weight, 2 days condition training and an armwrestling sparring. I always work with men, so I make quicker progress and good shape this year. I think I 'm very developed!

You easily have dealt with your rivals.

Can you tell that it was really easy or somebody made you nervous? Can you admit anybody in your category?

I became European champion last year. Alina Volkova used my mistake and I lost the world championship, just got 2^nd place. But my ambitions made me working hard. But I know that Alina competes now in 55 kg class. This year European Armwrestling Championship was the easiest of my life! To be honest, I didn't feel any of my competitors!

Your team shown great results at Europeans. What’s a secret of Turkish team?

The Turkish team has a real team spirit! Our dear armwrestling federation president Niyazi Kurt works very hard to develop armwrestling all over the country. It means we have a lot of competitors. We are a team bound tightly together! We come with great confidence and passion. We support our teammates because they all have the same goal – to represent our flag in the best way!

How do you like an event at all? What was the most impressing?

I felt proud when I was champion, it was the most impressive thing for me! I see a result of my hard work and it affects me so much every time!

What are your aims in sport? What will be your next competition?

I reached my first goal when I became European champion at senior left and right arm. Now my goal is to become left and right in Bulgaria. And I will work hard for it. I will do my best!  I hope this year will be my lucky one!