Four Conchs traveled to Kissimmee for the FHSAA 1A State Wrestling Championships. Sheyla Figueira, Abram Canet, Dostmukhammad Bakhtiyorov and Ralph Riche represented the Southernmost City at the event, each qualifying for a chance to win a state title by placing in the top four at regionals. One wrestler battled his way through the brackets to the medal round.
Riche entered the event seeded ninth. The 285-lb. senior was not new to the state championship arena, nor to the medal podium – Riche brought home a fifth-place medal last year competing in the 220-lb. category. Riche grappled his way into the history books, winning a second fifth-place medal, this time in the heavyweight category.
“After a tough first match at states, Ralph was able to fight back and take fifth place. His ability to win match after match after coming up short early in the tournament shows his determination and resilience,” said Key West athletic director Justin Martin. “He has grown into a strong leader and the embodiment of Conch Pride. We are beyond proud of him.”
Coach Chaz Jimenez echoed Martin’s sentiments. “Ralph is the type of kid that coaches love to coach,” he said. “His grit and determination sets him apart and is what will make him a success in life. I’m truly blessed to have coached such a great young man.”
Former Conch Ailee Briggs, who was part of Key West’s inaugural girls program last season, won silver in a crimson-and-gray singlet in 2023. This year, the sophomore wrestled for Lemon Bay and won the state championship in the 135-lb. category.
