The Wildcats girls weightlifting team competed at St. Augustine High School this past weekend in the final state qualifier. The top three finishers in each weight class qualify for the FHSAA state finals in Kissimmee on February 11. The Wildcats qualified three lifters for the state meet.

In the 139-pound class was Kristian Burnham, who finished second with a 130-pound bench press and 140-pound clean and jerk.

In the 169-pound class was Tiffany Braddy, who finished third with a school record 310-pound total. Braddy lifted 170 pounds in the clean and jerk and 140 pounds in the bench press.

Kasey Russell finished second in the unlimited class. She may have won the event had she not attempted a school record clean and jerk on her last attempt.

“She could have played it safe and won on her last attempt but elected to break her own record,” said Coach Joey Sulkowski. “Since the FHSAA sanctioned girls weightlifting, the Lady Wildcats have never had a lifter place and score points at the state championships. This year could be the year that streak ends.”

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