Ranch Rookie, Adams Says “Fair Shot” for Finalists

Still a teenager, 19-year-old CrossFit Games finalist Haley Adams looked cool and confident during Thursday’s press conference, alongside some of the most experienced athletes in the sport. Though this is her second straight individual Games appearance, fifth straight Games when you count her three years competing in the teen division.

• When asked about being the only female without experience competing at the ranch, Adams shrugged and said: “I don’t really stress about where we’re going…I don’t think it’s that much of an advantage to have been there before…I think we all have a fair shot,” she said.

Remind me: After winning the 16-17-year-old division at the Games in 2018, Adams went on to make a huge splash in her rookie season last summer when she placed sixth overall. Most recently, Adams placed a decisive third in stage one of the Games, giving her every reason to be as confident as her competitors heading into this weekend.

About her age: Adams was unperturbed. Her sports history has given her great body awareness and cardiovascular system, she said, and training in Cookeville, TN has been an undeniable advantage. She is also on the verge of becoming the youngest athlete in Games history to stand on the podium.

• Being in Cookeville has meant being surrounded by Mayhem Freedom Games champions, like Tasia Percevecz — Adams’ plus one this weekend — and the GOAT Rich “I don’t know how to lose” Froning, who has helped Adams make huge gains this past season, especially strength gains, she said.
• “I know I’m the strongest and fittest I have ever been,” she said.