IA Wrestle: Congrats on your first state title, how does it feel to be an Iowa high school state champion?
Triston Lara: It was a great feeling, one that I always have craved, and Fort Dodge has a huge wrestling fan base. It was awesome having tons of people from Fort Dodge that were super proud of me.
What was the biggest difference between last year when you were a runner-up to now with your wrestling?
From sophomore to junior year, I really put a commitment to wrestling. I was sick of sucking up weight, so I got a personal trainer and built up to 126 so cutting weight wouldn’t be thing. It worked great, and I really need to give my trainer Josh Ledford credit for my success! Not only did I lift a lot, but I also put a lot more effort into my workouts and kept my eyes on the prize.
Fort Dodge had the most champs of any 3A team, what’s it like to be on a team with so many quality wrestlers?
It’s great having tons of tough kids in our room because it really makes us push each other.
You guys obviously fell short of your state championship goal this season, have you talked with the team on how you guys plan to come back next year to try and reach that team goal?
The runner-up finish in the team tourney really just makes us even more hungry, we’ve already began working and preparing to go out on top next season.
Obviously a little different feeling for you this year getting a win on Saturday night, how did you celebrate your individual championship and what was the first thing you wanted to eat?
After the state finals I spent some time with my teammates and a few family members and just relaxed, nothing too special. My go to meal was a papa johns pepperoni pizza and a couple cans of Mountain Dew and Dr Pepper!
What are your wrestling plans for the summer?
My summer plans are to continue working hard and keep my eyes on the prize and double all-American at Fargo!
Heading into your senior year, have you received any interest from colleges, or do you have any colleges that you are interested in at this time?
I’m keeping my options opened but at the time being, I’ve got interest from UNI, Iowa State, and Oklahoma.