Last week, USA Weightlifting (USAW) released the qualifying totals for the new American Open Series. The totals — which are significantly lower than what we’re used to seeing at National meets — created a lot of conversation and speculation regarding the three-event Series, set to begin in 2017.
And while we still don’t know dates and locations for the 2017 American Open Series, USAW has given some new information regarding the competition format and point scoring system.
- For starters, the American Open will henceforth be referred to as the “American Open Finals” to reflect its place as the culmination of a season-long competition series. Points will be earned across all four Series events, and Champions will be awarded at the Finals.
- Each event in the Series will allow lifters the chance to set American Records and earn Rankings and Stipend eligibility.
- Championships will be awarded across Team, Adult/Junior, Youth, and Masters categories.
- All top three finishers in their weight categories at each Series event will automatically qualify for the American Open Finals, which will be held at the end of 2017.
And while participation in a Series event isn’t a requirement to compete in the Finals, lifters now have incentive to compete more than once, as points counting toward Series Champions will be awarded at each competition:
Points, per the IWF Technical Rules, will be awarded for 1st to 25th Place at each American Open Series, with the American Open Finals worth 2x points.
We’ll have more information on the new American Open Series — including dates and event locations — as they become available.
What do you think of the new American Open Series? Something you’d want to compete in? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Featured image: @usa_weightlifting on Instagram/LiftingLife