Gurley, Reid lead CBA's matmen

By News-Argus Staff
Published in Sports on January 14, 2008 4:14 PM

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WILSON -- Seniors Drake Gurley and Khiry Reid claimed their respective weight divisions, and Charles B. Aycock emerged the team champion in the sixth annual TDR Invitational contested Saturday at Beddingfield High School.

Gurley defeated Oxford Webb's Bryan Bowen 4-2 in the 119-pound final. Reid, the state's top-ranked Class 3-A wrestler, easily handled Wilson Hunt's Walker Holt 11-5 in the heavyweight title tilt.

"Drake and Khiry continue to bring their best to the mat each and every time they go out," said Aycock head coach Mark Bass. "We had a very good weekend on the mat. The competition was well-balanced.

"Any time you win a tournament, it is a huge achievement, but when you are able to do so with everyone contributing, it is satisfying as a coach and for the team as a whole."

Ten of 12 grapplers placed among the top six in their respective weight classes as the Golden Falcons accumulated 187.5 points. Gray's Creek ended up second with 167 points, followed by perennial power Green Hope (134), East Wake (130) and First Flight (121).

Kevin Carmel and Jarrett Covar settled for second place at 135 and 215 pounds, respectively. Justin Farrell (112 pounds), Brandon Bailey (130) and Bryan Diorio (189) each wound up third.

Josh Grimes (160) and Freddie Coley (171) each placed fourth. Teammates Joseph Conner and Nick Bentley each recorded a sixth-place effort in the 13-team event.

"As a team, and for the most part individually, we all took a step forward this weekend and at this point in the season, that is critical," said Bass. "We will continue to work hard to improve, and prepare to finish out the remainder of the season strong."

C.B. Aycock returns to action Saturday in the Thomas Cowles Firebird Duals at Southern Nash. First-round matches begin at approximately 9 a.m.