The Gilmer High School Bobcats wrestling team took the mats at both the Junior Varsity State Traditional tournament, held at Collins Hill, and Burnt Mountain Classic varsity tournament at Pickens High School. In Gilmer’s second ever appearance at the “King of the Hill” JV state tournament, the Bobcats won the title with 290 points, a full 59.5 points a head of second place finisher, the host, Collins Hill. The varsity, depleted by injuries, placed third at the Burnt Mountain Classic with 147 points, despite missing five starters.The Gilmer JV squad had nine finalists, with five wrestlers winning their weight classes, and four finishing second. Jacob Harrison at 106, Jake Wheeler at 120, Jamie Lopez at 152, Robbie Evans at 170, and Jesse Christa at 182 all won their respective weight classes. Dusty Lacy at 126, Kyle Woodall at 145, Tyler Hilvac at 220, and Zach Allen at 285 all finished with second place medals. Gilmer’s last two place winners were, Bryan Pritchett at 160 and James Reimer at 138, who took fifth and sixth respectively.

The Bobcats varsity team finished 10 points behind tournament winner Bob Jones, out of Alabama. The Bobcats had three finalists: Justin Karr; who finished second at 120; Johnie Flakes who finished second at 138; and Joey Ray, won at 160. Gilmer’s other two place winners were Daniel Bautista, who finished third at 113, and Tyler Bertolini, who finished fifth at 195.

The tournament highlights included, Justin Karr’s 200th win, and Johnie Flakes triple overtime victory in the semi-finals.

The Bobcats will take part in the Traditional Area tournament at Allatoona, February 3rd and 4th.

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