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Bars loaded: Powerlifters ready for state meet
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The Belen boys and girls are among the top contenders in 4A this weekend at the Powerlifting State Championships at Rio Rancho Events Center.
Nine boys and nine girls will lift for the Eagles, among the largest contingents in 4A.
The girls are up Friday, with 132-pounder Valeria Banuelos ranked No. 1, and Anida Clayton, second ranked at 165, leading BHS. The Eagles were fifth in 2024.
Among those to watch Saturday for the BHS boys are Augustine Griego, No. 2 at 181 pounds, with 132-pounder Gonzalo “Chalito” Cano, and super heavyweight Elijah Martinez, each ranked third in their weight divisions.
Valencia’s girls, which finished seventh last season, qualified five powerlifters, led by Jaden Martinez-Flowers who is ranked third at 259+.
In 2024, the VHS boys narrowly missed the podium, coming in fourth. Seven Jaguars have qualified this year, including Corbin Hill, 275 pounds, and Angel Lino, 308 pounds, who are both ranked third.
Los Lunas will have four girls and six boys competing in 5A. While none of the Tigers is ranked in the girls’ championship, Jagger Casillas is fourth at 132 pounds in 5A boys.
Bars will be loaded at 10 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, with competition in squat, bench and deadlift.
