Last season, Chance Randolph finished second in Class 2A’s 132-pound division and after bulking up to 138 pounds this season, the Dove Creek senior hopes to do even better.
Standing in his way figures to be Paonia High School senior Bo Pipher, who defeated Randolph in the championship last season. Despite the looming prospect of facing his longtime nemesis, however, Randolph is by no means nervous.
“I just want to do my best,” he said. “I’m hoping that the experience that I gained at the last two state tournaments will pay off.”
Randolph (38-10) will open the state tournament against Del Norte’s Tyler Martinez (19-10) on Friday afternoon. If he wins, he’ll face off against Burlington High School’s Martin Torres Jr. (24-7) or Buena Vista High School’s Jackson Baroni (17-20) in the second round on Feb. 20.
If Randolph wins his first three matches of the tournament, he could potentially face Pipher (43-0) in the finals.
Off the mat
Favorite books: Inheritance series
Favorite movie: Sherlock Holmes
Influential people: Dad and brothers
Historic dining partner: Abe Lincoln
Favorite spot: Grandma’s house