The grade 4 to 9 wrestlers of the Cochrane Cowboys Wrestling Club gained some valuable experience by participating in a school meet hosted by the Calgary's Connect Charter School, Jan. 19-20.

Other wrestlers competing included Zoe Adam, Jaityn LaBelle,Catherine Swedlo, Danyka LaBelle, Autumn Shopa Chase Adam, Austyn LaBelle, Autumn Carr, Kayel LaBelle and Hunter Carr.

It was especially helpful to the club's athletes who are participating in the upcoming Alberta Winter Games. With the games only three weeks away, the athletes had a chance to get  another meet under their belt and compete against wrestlers they normally wouldn't see in club competitions.

There was some good competition in all age groups. Grades 4-6 were 2-minute exhibition matches only, where no winner was declared. The Junior High format was the same 2 x 2-minute rounds, with a winner being declared by points or a pin.

These school wrestlers were not to be underestimated as many schools in Calgary have wrestling programs starting in Grade 4.  No local schools offer programs for wrestlers below grade 7.

The Alberta Winter Games take place in Fort McMurray and area, Feb. 16-19. Twelve Cochrane Cowboys make up the core of the Zone 2 wrestling team.