With a dual against Madera High, the Clovis West Shootout, and the Reno Tournament of Champions in its rearview, Turlock High added another marking point to its brutal pre-season schedule with the Zinkin Classic over the weekend.

Eight Bulldogs made the trip to Buchannan High School, five made it to the second day of competition, and three returned home with medals—a decent showing against top level schools.

“It was a lot tougher than it was last year,” Turlock’s head coach Mike Contreras said.

Seniors Ricky Flores and Ricardo Garcia continued their streak of tournament success with a 3rd and 8th place finish, respectively. Sophomore Isaac Bertalotto pulled in Turlock’s third medal with a 7th place finish while junior Ricco McCombs narrowly missed his chances at medaling due to injury default.

“Ricky and Ricardo have had a winning record in all these tournaments,” Contreras said. “Those two guys are going to be a huge part of our lineup.”

“It was disappointing for him to get hurt like that and not be able to get a medal,” Contreras added about McCombs.

Now, with the toughest obstacles behind them, the Bulldogs are looking forward to a four way dual at Oakridge High on Friday before the annual Bulldog Classic on Jan. 5.

“We’re ready and feeling good,” Contreras said.