USA Weightlifting Nationals: Where rising stars and Olympians share the platform

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- A quick pep talk. A dusting of chalk. One final breath.

For weightlifters, the moments before stepping onto the platform are often the quietest.

Then comes the lift.

From frustration to exhilaration, the USA Weightlifting National Championships bring out the full emotional spectrum in athletes.

The event serves as a major stepping stone for young, promising talent working to make a name for themselves on the national stage.

“Even though this is nationals, it can be a big deal for a lot of people,” Olympic Gold Medalist Olivia Reeves said.

For many, it’s their first taste of a high-level competition environment.

The championships aren’t just about rising stars. They’re also a chance for established Olympians to stay sharp.

Hampton Morris, who won a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, continues to compete at nationals, but with a different perspective than when he first started.

“Nationals used to be really intimidating,” Morris said. “Now I just feel the support of the whole weightlifting community. It’s a more fun experience.”

For veterans, the event becomes less about pressure and more about connection and consistency.

Among the competitors this year is Colorado Springs native Kaiden Mima, who’s proud to represent his hometown on a national stage.

“Being able to represent my city means a lot,” Mima said. “I don’t think there’s a better place to train than Colorado.”

He credits the region’s high altitude for giving him a competitive edge.

“It definitely gives me a little bit of an advantage,” he said. “Training at elevation keeps me conditioned and ready.”

Reeves was the first American to win Olympic gold in weightlifting since 2000. She understands that pressure all too well.

“It’s just a different level of pressure when you’re competing locally,” she said.

At its core, the sport is about more than strength. It’s a precise blend of technique, discipline, and mental toughness.

For many athletes competing at nationals, the dream is clear: earn the chance to represent Team USA.

“I’m really excited for the opportunity,” Mima said. “To wear the red, white, and blue, it’s been a dream for a while. It’s an amazing opportunity.”

After his performance this week, Mima will represent Team USA at the FISU World University Championship in Doha, Qatar this September.