The CrossFit Games Atlantic Regional is normally one of the toughest qualification spots for any athlete, but after Day 1 in 2017, one former Games Champ and multi-time podium finisher looks to be facing his toughest-ever test.
As the 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games Champ (and last year’s second place finisher), it’s easy to assume Ben Smith will qualify for the sport’s biggest stage every year, just as he’s been doing since he was a teenager. But after two events, Smith finds himself tied for 19th overall in the Atlantic — well behind his younger brothers Alec and Dane, who sit in 10th and 14th places, respectively.
Other Games veterans like Noah Ohlsen and Nathan Bramblett are positioned in the top 5 after two events, with Travis Mayer, Jacob Anderson, and Daniel Petro all within striking distance. John Cotley currently leads Ohlsen, holding onto first by twelve points after his Event 2 win.
On the women’s side, Emily Bridgers and Cassidy Lance-McWherter hold the top two spots. Bridgers has been a dominant force in this region for a number of years, and it looks like she came into this competition in top form.
We’ve embedded archived footage Individual Event 1 below in this article.
The Top 5 standings for Women, Men, and Teams after Day 1 are below:
Women:
1. Emily Bridgers
2. Cassidy Lance-McWherter
3. Whitney Gelin
4. Caroline Dardini
5. Breona Evans
Men:
1. John Cotley
2. Noah Ohlsen
3. Jake Berman
4. Nathan Bramblett
5. Ryan Elrod
Team:
1. CrossFit Dwala
2. 336 CrossFit
3. Hustlehard CrossFit
4. CrossFit Balance
5. 12 Labours Lions
Featured image: @CrossFit® on YouTube
