Crimson Matmen Advance to Finals

Sophomore Dan Blakinger and junior Ritchie Starr won their respective divisions in the Northwest District Olympic Trials last weekend at Springfield. Blakinger will now enter the national trials at 105, and Starr may compete at 198.

Each Crimson wrestler won five consecutive bouts to qualify for the U.S. finals to be held at the University of Minnesota on June 22. Blakinger and Starr outwrestled opposition from New England and New York City to advance to the nationals.

Stiff Competition

Blakinger faced fairly stiff competition at 114 last weekend, and he is a strong candidate in the national 105 class. Starr faced a slightly less competitive field at 198, and he will probably pass up the national trials because of scheduled knee surgery later this spring.

Two other Crimson wrestlers, John Keough (180) and Bob Kristoff (220) were eliminated in the third round at Springfield.