The South Sumter High School Raiders displayed an impressive performance at the recent Lake Sumter Championship meet, triumphing over Leesburg High with a score of 74-43, while The Villages secured third place with 35 points. Notable mentions include Lake Minneola in fourth place and East Ridge narrowly surpassing Tavares to secure the fifth and sixth positions, respectively.

Throughout the season, South Sumter High School has showcased dominance, with standout athletes such as Cody Zilcosky, Bobby Hill, Jamare Dorsey, Ty Kadur, and others exhibiting exceptional skills. Coach Chris Gauntlett’s dedication and hard work with this team have undoubtedly contributed to producing outstanding weightlifters.

(Individual winners of the Lake County Championship Weighlifting meet.)

Among the highlights of the championship, South Sumter’s Cody Zilcosky clinched first place in the Traditional category, lifting a total of 470lbs in the 139lb class. Leesburg’s Jeremy Lacey dominated the 119lb class with 435lbs, while Blake Smith from South Sumter secured a commendable 2nd place with 340lbs.

In the 129lb class, Kristian Sarakinis from The Villages claimed victory with 495lbs, with Brody Smith and Tucker Simmons from South Sumter securing 2nd and 4th place, respectively. The 154lb class saw John Hunt and Jamie Solano from South Sumter finishing 2nd and 3rd, contributing crucial points to the team’s success. Notably, Tavares’ Nicholas Demeritte achieved a remarkable victory in his class with 490lbs.

A standout performance came from Bobby Hill of South Sumter, who dominated the 169lb class by lifting an impressive 615lbs, securing 1st place. Ethan Martinez also performed well, finishing 4th with 465lbs.

In the 199lb class, Zach Field and Savion Latimore from Leesburg secured 1st and 2nd place, respectively, showcasing their potential for the season. South Sumter’s Jamare Dorsey and Landon Fudge contributed significantly to the team’s overall points.

Ty Kadur’s outstanding performance in the 219lb class, lifting 620lbs to claim 1st place, was another highlight for South Sumter. Additionally, Russell Fickett from Mount Dora High secured 2nd place with 590lbs.

Amare Joseph emerged victorious in the 238lb class, lifting 695lbs, while South Sumter’s Tristan Segrest finished 2nd with 625lbs. Notable mentions include Anthony Schoenaur from South Sumter finishing 5th and The Villages’ Malek Williams taking 3rd place.

In the Unlimited Weight Class, Lake Minneola’s Noah Devine clinched 1st place, followed by Luke Phillips from The Villages in 2nd. South Sumter’s James Campbell and Brady Mallory secured 3rd and 5th place, respectively.

Looking ahead, South Sumter’s impressive team performance hints at potential success in future competitions. Individually, Leesburg is expected to present strong contenders for the state championships, while Lake Minneola shows promise in the heavier weight classes.

The anticipation for districts, regionals, and states is palpable, with the county boasting an array of exceptional weightlifters.