Bolts’ Poage and Kincaid Shine at Wrestling Tournaments This Weekend

URGENT UPDATE: The Baxter Bolts wrestling team showcased exceptional talent over the weekend, with standout performances from Kinnick Poage and Ruger Kincaid at two separate tournaments. Competing against out-of-state teams, the Bolts finished eighth at the Ron Dodd Viking Invitational held in Northwood on December 9, 2023.

In a fiercely competitive field of ten teams, the Bolts scored 48 points, with Dover-Eyota securing the tournament title with 215 points, just ahead of Westfield at 208 points. Poage was a standout, finishing as the runner-up at 113 pounds after an impressive 4-1 day that included four pins, all under 50 seconds.

“Kinnick really dominated his matches,” said Bolts coach after witnessing Poage’s remarkable recovery following a challenging start where he lost his first match by fall while leading 3-2. His season record now stands at 12-2.

Kincaid also made waves, placing third at 190 pounds. Despite a tough opening-round loss of 20-9, he bounced back with three consecutive pins, showcasing his strength and determination. His overall record improved to 8-3 after this tournament.

Additionally, Lincoln Russell competed fiercely at 120 pounds, securing a fifth-place finish with a record of 2-2, including two pins despite facing tough competition.

Earlier in the week, on December 12, the Bolts continued their momentum at the Montezuma Invitational, where Poage, Kincaid, and teammate Maddox Peters combined for an impressive 7-3 performance. Bondurant-Farrar claimed the tournament title with 305.5 points.

Poage again shined brightly, securing second place at 106 pounds with a record of 2-1, his wins coming by pin in under 1 minute 50 seconds. Peters also placed second at 175 pounds, finishing 2-1 with two quick pins.

Kincaid further solidified his prowess by going 3-1 with three pins at 215 pounds, including a rapid first-match win by fall in just 42 seconds. His only defeat was against Class 1A No. 2 Braxton Plants of Montezuma.

“The team showed incredible resilience and skill this weekend,” remarked the team’s coach. Sam Wilhelm also competed, placing fourth at 190 pounds with a record of 1-2.

The Bolts’ performances this weekend not only highlight their growing momentum but also set the stage for what promises to be an exciting wrestling season ahead. Fans and supporters are eager to see how the team will build on this success in upcoming matches.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Baxter Bolts continue to compete and strive for excellence on the wrestling mat!