Andy Villamarzo, Times Correspondent
Friday, March 4, 2011
NEW PORT RICHEY — It's early in the season, but Ridgewood is starting to shape into midseason form.
The Rams are counting on key contributors such as jumper Ricki Goff and sprinter Karissa Bertling to help lift the Rams to their first conference crown in seven seasons.
Friday night demonstrated Ridgewood, competing in its second meet of the season, may end that drought in a couple months as it easily topped the girls field with 171 points and the boys edged Pasco 104-96 at Des Little Stadium.
"I have 13 or 14 seniors and they're definitely stepping up this season," Ridgewood coach Sue Vien said. "I'm pleased and I know some of the stronger teams were here tonight, but with Wiregrass in the picture, I hope we see them soon. I don't know when we will see them before conference, but it was a team effort to win this meet tonight and that's what it's going to take every time."
Goff and teammate Ashley Rodriguez finished second and third in both the high hurdles (16.88, 17.78) and 300-meter hurdles (50.89, 53.16). Bertling had a strong meet showing, as the senior claimed victories in the 100 (12.05), 200 (25.89) and 400 (1:00) and finished second in the high jump (4 feet, 8 inches).
"I improved upon on all my times, but it's still the beginning of the year," Bertling said.
Others who performed well were Land O'Lakes' Nicole Woodard, who took the high jump (4-10) and long jump (16-6), and Wesley Chapel's Ravin Gilbert was second in the 100 (12.38) and 200 (26.57).
On the boys side, Max Livingstone led the way for the Rams by taking the 200 (25.89) and 400 (52.45). Pasco's Anthony Plourde won the 3200 with a time of 10:03, and Janarion Grant won the long jump (22-11/2). Wesley Chapel's Hunter Joyer easily won the shot put (58-8) and discus (127.9).