STATE COLLEGE, PA — On this day before the start of the 2024 US Olympic Team Trials, two top Greco-Roman stars have reportedly decided to forgo their original weight classes. Three-time National Champion Hayden Tuma (NYAC) is bypassing 60 kg for 67, and ’23 US Open titlist Justus Scott (Army/WCAP) is climbing from 67 to 77.
Tuma had been seeded 3rd in the 60 kg bracket behind Ildar Hafizov (Army/WCAP) and Dalton Roberts (Army/WCAP). Recent Thor Masters bronze Max Black (NMU/NTS) will take Tuma’s spot as the #3 seed, just as Randon Miranda (NYAC) will take Black’s at #4.
Scott was seeded 6th at 67 kg, with highly-decorated Ellis Coleman (Army/WCAP) slotted one spot below at #7. ’23 World rep Xavier Johnson (Army/WCAP) was behind Coleman at #8. Due to the late switches in each weight category, the presumed result is that both Tuma and Scott will be seeded last in their respective new weight categories (which is indeed actually just fine because seeding serves only to inform pairings and tease the imaginations of invested observers — Ed.).
In addition, ’16 Olympian/multi-time World Team member Jesse Thielke (Army/WCAP) will not be competing. Thielke was positioned as the #9 seed at 67 kg.
If health is not a factor, the weight class changes for Tuma and Scott may not diminish either of their chances for success this weekend. Tuma has made many previous appearances at 67 kg and earned one of his three Open titles in the weight class. Last season, Scott competed in the 72 kg division, won the Nationals, and entering this campaign was figured to be a contender at 77 until he instead opted for 67. Scott was big for 72 and even more sizable down in weight.
2024 Olympic Trials Schedule
— All times ET.
— Live streaming available on Peacock (subscription required).
— USA Network will carry both the Challenge Tournament finals (Friday) & best-of-three finals (Saturday).
FRIDAY, APRIL 19
10:00am-3:45pm — Session I
6:30pm-10:00pm — Session II
SATURDAY, APRIL 20
10:00am-2:30pm — Session III
6:30pm-10:00pm — Best-of-three Olympic Trials finals
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