Peak to Peak Tennis Stars Fall Short in State Championships

UPDATE: In a dramatic finish to the 4A State Tennis Championships, Peak to Peak’s standout duo, Vivaan Bhardwaj and Shreyas Sundaresan, both fell short in their respective singles finals at Pueblo City Park on Saturday, marking the end of an impressive season for the boys’ tennis team.

Just moments ago, Bhardwaj, a senior and top contender, faced a fierce challenge against Nithesh Karuppasamy from D’Evelyn, suffering a crushing defeat in 12 straight games. Sundaresan, holding the No. 2 singles position, narrowly lost to Oliver Neely from Colorado Academy, with both sets ending at 7-5.

This outcome is significant as it concludes a stellar season for the Pumas, who previously showcased their skills in the team state tournament, only to fall to Colorado Academy in the semifinals earlier this week. The pressure was palpable as both players sought to clinch individual titles after a hard-fought season.

Bhardwaj entered the finals with confidence, citing his experience from national-level tournaments as a key strength. “I think mentally, my strength is probably experience in high-pressure situations,” he stated. His opponent’s unique style posed unexpected challenges. “Karuppasamy’s unorthodox game made him a challenging but fun opponent,” Bhardwaj explained.

Meanwhile, Sundaresan’s match was equally intense. After previously losing to Neely earlier in the week, he was determined to adjust his strategy. “I was up 5-1 in the first set, but he shifted focus, which threw off my game,” Sundaresan reflected. Despite the disappointment, he remains optimistic about future competitions, stating, “I’ve learned valuable lessons for my games ahead.”

The Pumas had a strong showing overall, with freshman Cody Palmer finishing fourth in singles and several doubles teams making notable advances. Head coach Matt Palmer expressed pride in the team’s performance, emphasizing the growth and experience gained this season. “Cody will be back next year, and with Shreyas and a solid group of sophomores moving up, we are set for a competitive future,” he remarked.

The results from the state tournament highlight not only the individual talent of the players but also the strength of local tennis programs. With the season wrapping up, the Pumas and their supporters reflect on a year filled with hard work, determination, and valuable lessons.

As the dust settles on this year’s championships, all eyes will be on the upcoming season as these young athletes aim to return stronger and more prepared for the challenges ahead.