GUNNISON – Adams State University wrestling squad opened up dual competition today with two duals against No. 11-ranked Simon Fraser and No.16-ranked University of Findlay in the 28^th annual Tracy Borah Duals hosted by Western State Colorado University. Adams fell 25-24 to Simon Fraser, then 24-23 to the University of Findlay.
 
The Grizzlies opened up a huge 11 point lead with Darek Huff pinning Oscar Bulaqui in just 33 seconds, followed by Luis Gurule earning a 20-2 tech fall against Riley Prough of Simon Fraser. Natrelle Demison would go on to earn a 10-5 decision, and a forfeit at the 165 weight class brought the Grizzlies up.
 
The latter half of the dual saw Richard Bencomo earning a 14-1 major decision, while his brother Joe Bencomo fell to No.2-ranked Morgan Smith by a close 3-1 decision. With a five point lead, Ciaran Ball pinned Tuli Laulu just before the sixth minute of the match, giving Simon Fraser the improbable win.
 
A short half hour later, the Grizzlies were back at it against Findlay. Huff and Gurule closed out their days each scoring 11 points, with Huff earning a 22-3 opening tech fall and Gurule pinning Findlay's Mike Stewart. This momentum carried, as Dylan Udero earned a 5-4 defeat and Demison defeated Josh Wimer by fall in a minute and a half to sweep the first four weight classes.
 
The next three of four matches featured the No.11, No.10, and No.7 ranked wrestlers, leading to Findlay earning 18 points after letting up 20 in the first four.
 
Joe Bencomo won a decision to set up the Grizzlies with another five point lead, then déjà vu struck as No.9-ranked Mimmo Lytle defeated Sylvester Montgomery by fall within a minute to give Findlay the win.
 
Adams State won't see an easier road trip next week, as they face No. 21 - ranked Fort Hays State next week, followed by No. 15 - ranked Lindenwood, No. 6 - ranked Central Oklahoma, and Newman University in the Kearney Duals. They finish up the forever road trip against No. 7 - ranked CSU-Pueblo on the road before hosting New Mexico Highlands on January 18th.