There's no sort of school wrestling where I am. So now, at 33, I'm really keen to start wrestling.

I'm fit enough to play rugby so I guess I'm fit enough to start training (I know 'wrestling fit' is different, but I think it's a good platform to start from)

Has anybody else out there started late? Got any tips? Advice? Anybody older still competing?

I guess I'm not going to take gold in the olympics, but how far do you think you can get in 5 years?

I'm 34 and have been practicing Jiu-Jitsu for 3 months now. I average twice a week at practice and as long as I show up and stay focused, I've seen improvement. I used to wrestle in Middle School and High School and stopped grappling completely until now. We have one day each week dedicated to no gi jiu jitsu so it's a bit more like straight wrestling. It's tough getting back into it because even though I feel strong, ultimately, the guys who have perfected their technique and are well conditioned will domintate me every time. I think the key is to focus on making improvements every training session on days when you're not wrestling, focus on conditioning and exercises that will help you when you spar. I have good days and bad, more bad than good lately but I think alot of improvement is dependent upon your willingness to set goals and do whatever it takes to reach those goals even when faced with constant punishment from those younger and more skilled.

Best of luck!

CDM

Just turned 50 and preparing for my black belt in Sept in a mixed martial arts style.
You can do it!
Mark

Keep pressing on, I'm 46. I started 1.5 yrs ago in Bjj and just started Muay Thai ! My problem is age also along with personal ego. ;) My stand up is pretty good (karate background) but I get it handed to me on a regular basis in BJJ. Do it for youself no one else. Be easy on yourself and you will enjoy it more and you'll see that you will get better.
John