Smith and Reinsel Have Good Showing At State Junior Wrestling Tournament (03/28/14)

Clarion Area Elementary wrestlers, Ben Smith and Owen Reinsel each had fine showings, with Top 16 finishes in the Pennsylvania Junior Wrestling Tournament, held Friday and Saturday, March 21-22 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg.

(Photo provided by the Smiths) Ben taking a shot on an opponent at States

The two took pretty much the same route on their way to the Top 16. Both opened with wins. Smith won his first match in the 11-12 year old, 145lb. division, by fall over Sergio Bell of Hempfield in thirty-one seconds. Reinsel pinned Lucas Kapusta of Hempfield, in 3:29, of his opening belt, in the 9-10 year old, 65lb division.

Both boys lost in the next round. Smith lost by fall to Mark Kurchena Jr., from South Fayette and Reinsel lost by a close 2-0 score to Carter Gill of Hermitage.

The two Bobcats each notched wins in their first consolation matches. Smith won a close 1-0 win over Sammy Barber from Johnstown. Reinsel defeated Ava Bayless of Reynolds in his match. With the wins Smith and Reinsel secured their places in the Top 16.

(Photo provided by the Reinsels)
Owen proudly wearing his Bobcat shirt at states.

Both Clarion wrestlers bowed out of the competition, in the next round as Smith lost by fall to Travis Lytle of Charleroi and Reinsel lost by fall to Nathan Yagle from McGuffy.

There is fierce competition on the State’s Big Stage. And for both these boys to notch two victories and finish in the Top 16 is a fine accomplishment.

CONGRATULATIONS BEN AND OWEN!!!!