HONOLULU — Waimea High School wrestler Skyelynn Ripley did it, again — putting in a winning record during the 2022 Pa‘ani Challenge that wrapped up, Friday on O‘ahu.
Ripley, wrestling in the Open 145 class, finished the three-day tournament with a 3-2 record. Previously, the Waimea High School medaled in the 52nd annual Garner Ivey Maui Invitational Tournament on Maui, and finished fifth at the Hawai‘i Officials Scholarship Tournament on O‘ahu.
“With more than 350 girls participating, the 10th annual 2022 Pa‘ani Challenge surpassed previous records and illustrates the growth of girls wrestling in the Hawai‘i High School Athletic Association,” said Mac Pigott, the Kaua‘i Interscholastic Federation wrestling tournament director. “KIF girls benefited from college and career booths, as well as a clinic by Hawai‘i’s Hall of Famer Clarissa Chun.”
Kaua‘i High School sent four of its wahine wrestlers with Chyanne Ka‘aihua, wrestling in the Novice 184 class, finishing with a 2-1 record.
Bella Kellerman, participating in the Open 127 class, ended 1-1 following a forfeit, and Ambrie Rocha, wrestling in the Open 117 class, ended with a 1-2 record. Alexandra Snyder, wrestling in the Open 127 class, ended 3-0 following a Disqualification.
“We had an amazing experience at the Pa‘ani Challenge,” said Kaua‘i High School coach Julian Saldana. “Our thanks go out to Punahou Athletics and all responsible for making this happen. Our girls, both veterans and new, were able to showcase their talents while also getting a professional perspective on what employers and colleges are seeking. Memories for a lifetime.”
Pigott said following three major preseason tournaments, the Pa‘ani helps coaches gauge where their wrestlers rank statewide.
“Starting this Thursday, the Moanalua Duals is the final opportunity for cross league competition,” Pigott said. “The KIF league season starts Jan. 14 with five consecutive Saturdays inked on the KIF Master Schedule.”
Kaua‘i High School will host the first KIF tournament with the first matches starting at 10 a.m.
