USA weightlifting North American Open finals being held in Wilmington

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Nike USA Weightlifting 2023 North American Open Finals are being held in Wilmington next week.

This marks the first time USA Weightlifting has hosted a national event in North Carolina.

The event will run December 7th through 10th, with an estimated 1,700 athletes and spectators expected to travel to the area from all over the nation.

“USA Weightlifting is very excited to be hosting the North American Open Finals in Wilmington,” states Pedro Meloni, USAW Director of Events and Sponsorship. “The city is beautiful, especially with the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. The Wilmington Convention Center is a great venue, and the lively downtown area will surely be a treat for our visiting members and fans. We’re looking forward to a spectacular weekend in North Carolina and we’re very appreciative to the city for welcoming us with open arms.”

Participating Team USA athletes will include 2024 Olympic hopeful Danielle Gunnin, who is coming off the 2023 IWF World Championships; Ryan Sester, gold winner in the 102 kg weight class at the 2023 Pan American Championships; and Meredith Alwine, 2021 71 kg World Champion and 76 kg gold winner at the 2023 Pan American Championships.

Competition events will take place at the Wilmington Convention Center with the first events taking place Thursday morning and continuing through Sunday afternoon.

The final schedule for the 2023 North American Open Finals can be found HERE.