Five wrestlers with local ties competed in the U.S. Olympic Wrestling Trials this past weekend, showcasing their skills and determination on the mat. Among them, Sage Mortimer, a former American Leadership Academy wrestler, finished second in the challenger tournament for women’s wrestling. Mortimer, who had previously competed in the 2020 trials as a high school senior, displayed her prowess by winning her first two bouts convincingly before falling in the final.
Brooklyn Hays, a standout from Pleasant Grove with two state titles under her belt, also made her mark by placing third in her weight class. Despite an initial defeat in the quarterfinals, Hays fought back in the consolation bracket and emerged victorious to claim third place.
In the men’s wrestling category, former Utah Valley wrestlers Taylor LaMont and Dylan Gregerson competed in the Greco-Roman tournament at 60 kilograms. While both were defeated in the quarterfinals, LaMont showcased his resilience by securing a fourth-place finish in the challenger bracket.
The trials were not without drama, with tensions running high between competitors and unexpected upsets taking place. Notably, the feud between Jordan Burroughs and Carter Starocci added an extra layer of intensity to the event, culminating in surprising outcomes and emotional moments on the mat.
As the dust settled and the final results were announced, the wrestling community celebrated the achievements of those who secured a spot on the Olympic team. With a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, the future of wrestling in the Olympics looks bright, thanks to the dedication and talent displayed at the trials.