EL RENO, OK — While most students were trading their books for beach towels over Spring Break, the Ketchum Warriors were trading sweat for silver. Sending six elite qualifiers to the State Powerlifting Championships in El Reno, the Warriors delivered a powerhouse performance to secure the program’s first-ever State Runner-Up trophy.
It was a day defined by broken records, personal bests, and a relentless "team-first" mentality that saw every lifter contribute to the historic podium finish.
Carriger Sets the Standard
Leading the charge was Hunter Carriger, who put on a clinic in strength and technique. Carriger didn’t just win; he dominated, claiming the title of State Champion with a massive 1,200 lb. total.
The highlight of his performance came at the bench press station, where Carriger etched his name into the history books. He successfully pressed 305 lbs., shattering the previous mark to set a new official State Record.
A Roster of Heavy Hitters
The Warriors' success was a true ensemble effort, with every qualifier battling through high-stakes attempts:
Kolton Mays: Secured a 2nd Place finish with a stellar 925 lb. total, providing crucial points for the team's overall standing.
Wyatt Sopha: Finished in 10th place with an impressive 1,165 lb. total. Sopha made Ketchum history by becoming the first-ever Warrior to join the "500 Club," successfully pulling a 500 lb. deadlift.
Josh Reifendiefer: Gritted out a 6th Place finish, contributing an 890 lb. total to the scoreboard.
Lyric Buzzard: Cracked the top ten with a 9th Place finish and a strong 820 lb. total.
Dayden Cobb: Rounded out the team’s performance in 11th place, hoisting a formidable 1,075 lb. total.
Making History
The combined strength of these six athletes allowed Ketchum to muster enough points to edge out the competition and claim the runner-up hardware. This trophy represents more than just a successful meet; it marks a turning point for Ketchum Powerlifting, proving that this small-school program can compete—and win—against the best in the state.
Congratulations to the lifters and coaching staff on a Spring Break for the record books!
contributed by Shane Francis