LAURA P ATEK Contributing Writer
Cuero High School held its very first powerlifting meet Jan. 22.
Hosting at the Girl’s Gym, the atmosphere was filled with excitement as athletes from across the area gathered to showcase their strength, determination, and passion for the sport. Powerlifting fans came out to support their local athletes, creating an uplifting environment filled with cheers and encouragement.
The meet showcased a variety of weight classes, enabling a diverse group of lifters to display their skills. The competition was tough, as athletes pushed their limits and fueled their ambitions, competing not only for personal achievements but also for team honors.
Here are the results from each classification: 132 Class: Stran Gaitan put in an impressive performance, securing 3rd place with a total lift of 945 lbs, but the Lady Gobblers dominated with Jaide Jones getting the gold and Jeana Naranjo the silver with 680 lbs and 565 lbs respectively.
165 Class: Connor Serece dominated the competition, clinching 1st place with a remarkable total of 1145 lbs. Caleb Keller secured 3rd place with a solid total of 705 lbs, Natalie Taylor 1st place with 660 lbs, and Faith Fric 4th place with 445 lbs.
198 Class: The 198 class was notable for its fierce competition. Mayson Ybarra took 1st place with a total lift of 1105 lbs, while Ignacio Villanueva claimed 3rd with an impressive 1035 lbs. Matthew Jones rounded out the rankings in 5th place, lifting a commendable 875 lbs.
242 Class: In this weight class, Noah Weghorst finished strong in 2nd place with a total lift of 1035 lbs. Jackson Martin followed closely behind in 3rd with 1015 lbs, and Kaleb Esparza showed commendable strength, finishing 4th with a total of 790 lbs.
148 Class:Aaron Maldonado put forth a solid effort, finishing 4th with a lift of 630 lbs. Grace Becker 2nd with 605 lbs total, Logan Bonewald 3rd with 585lbs, Morgan Zengerle 5th with 515 lbs.
181 Class: This was one of the most competitive classes of the day. Connor Thigpen earned the 2nd spot with a phenomenal total of 1290 lbs, while Jace Patek and Hudson Zengerle finished 3rd and 4th, lifting 1000 lbs and 935 lbs, respectively. Jackson McCarter added to the rankings in 5th with a lift of 650 lbs. In the girls division, Larenn Elizalde placed 1st with 585 lbs.
220 Class: Hayden Leist demonstrated his strength and determination, finishing 5th with a total of 1055 lbs and Avalynn Rodriguez added a silver medal with 785lbs.
275 Class: In this heavyweight division, Trenton Seals emerged victorious, lifting an impressive 1095 lbs to take 1st place. Lawson Hahn claimed 3rd with 1010 lbs.
As the meet came to a close, the Gobblers emerged as the overall team champion with 53 points, narrowly defeating Goliad, which tallied 43 points, and the Lady Gobblers came out on top with 42 points, edging out Hallettsville by one point.
This inaugural event not only showcased incredible athleticism but also brought together fans, families, and friends, marking a successful beginning for powerlifting in Cuero. As we celebrate this day of strength, we look forward to future meets that will inspire even more lifters to join the ranks and embrace the powerlifting journey.
