Belgarde, Csizmar, Fowler lead Bulldogs
Sandpoint’s Mike Fowler spins around for a reversal against Mt. Spokane’s Billy Goforth during the Tri-State wrestling meet on Friday at North Idaho College. Action continues today and tonight. (Photo by JEROME POLLOS/HNN)
COEUR d’ALENE — Sandpoint senior Garret Belgarde, one of a small handful of past champions competing, registered two pins to lead a host of Bulldog wrestlers posting wins on the first day of the prestigious Tri-State Tournament at North Idaho College.
More than 50 teams from around the Northwest are on hand, and Belgarde was seeded No. 1 seed at 119 pounds. He pinned his Central Valley opponent in 17 seconds, then won by a second round pin in the second round over Mt. Spokane. His quarterfinal match was not yet in progress at the Daily Bee deadline.
Also still alive in the draw today is Kyle Csizmar (140), who pinned his Vashion Island opponent in the first period, then lost by a first period pin to a Libby opponent before bouncing back in consolation to secure a first period pin over Auburn.
Mike Fowler registered a 3-0 win over Central Valley and a 4-3 win over East Valley for the Bulldogs’ other two wins, but also lost twice and was eliminated. Matt Lockey (215) suffered a tough loss when he was pinned with nine seconds left in a match against Camas in the first round.
Dakota Blaese (125), Peyton Dillon (112) and Justin Pepperdine (189) each lost their first two matches, as the Bulldogs took down seven wrestlers.
The meet continues today with the semis at noon and the finals slated to start at 6 p.m.
Idahosports.com is webcasting the action live.