Hafford claims first place at Dayton tourney
By GEORGIA PURDY

Raymond Hafford took the top spot in the 242- pound weight class at the Dayton Invitational Powerlifting meet Saturday, Feb. 2. Hafford lifted a total of 1,370 and was Jasper's only first place entry.

"We had a smaller than usual team," coach Eric Farrar said. "Some of the team members were visiting colleges for scholarship chances or competing in other high school sports. Those who lifted this weekend did so with heart and passion and had plenty of fun doing it."

Cliff Mitchell and Trae Horn earned sixth place finishes. Mitchell competed in the 220 class and had a total of 1,115. Horn had a total weight of 1,130 in the 198 class.

Farrar said that Xavier Mays, David Beck, Steven Shives, and Carlos Carter also played key roles for their teammates.

Power-lifters require a great deal of assistance in competition- wrapping their knees and wrists, helping them into their restrictive shirts, spotting for safety, or loading the bar. Their teammates frequently help with these chores.

"We want to thank the fans who attended to support them," Farrar said. "We look forward to a much bigger turnout of participants as we prepare for the next meet in Livingston, Feb. 10.