Three LHS powerlifters qualified for the UIL State Powerlifting Meet after competing in Regionals recently.

Junior David Bledsoe, freshman Racheal Puckett and senior Amina Petty qualified. The girl’s state meet was on Saturday, March 18. At that meet, Petty placed tenth out of twenty girls competing, and Puckett placed twelfth out of eighteen. Both girls had a personal best performance.

“I never thought that I would make it to State in something,” Puckett said. “It was kind of surreal because I was talking with my dad earlier in the week and we were discussing just how cool it would be to make it to State.”

Puckett, a freshman this year, has a lot of time to improve and prepare for next year. She hopes to compete again and represent Lindale girl’s powerlifting.

“Racheal is very strong for her size,” coach Matt Cochran said. “She has a very good chance to make it back to state next year and compete for a medal as long as she keeps working, and I know for a fact that she will.”

The boy’s state powerlifting meet will be held Friday, March 24. David Bledsoe advanced to state after placing 2nd at the regional meet. Bledsoe put in tireless work to increase his strength and muscle mass; his entire last year of training has led to this meet.

“This is one of the most exciting things I’ve ever done,” Bledsoe said. “It’s my first time making it to state and I can’t wait to compete for my school and for myself.”