Team USA vs. Team Europe

     The "Sport of Fitness" is becoming increasingly popular. The first Crossfit Invitational presented by Reebook took place on October 13 and had approximately 2,000 fans in attendance. Team USA vs. Team Europe competed and represented their countries in a battle of fitness. Team USA was represented by Rich Froning (Captain and Crossfit Men's champion), Matt Chan, Jason Khalipa, Rebecca Voigt, Kristan Clever and Julie Foucher. On the other hand, Team Europe was represented by Annie Thorisdottir (Captain and Crossfit Games Women's champion), Samantha Briggs, Katrin Tanja Davidsdottir, Numi Katrinarson, Mikko Aronpaa, and Thomas Vainio. These two teams that consisted of the best athletes were going head to head to claim victory for their country.
     These teams had great Crossfit icons competing against one another. What surprised me was their humility coming into this invitational. Jason Khalipa said, "I feel honored to have been chosen for Team U.S.A. and to be representing my country and a sport that I love with such passion is awesome." Khalipa was the 2008 Men's World Champion, the fittest man in the world. Yet, he was still humble about being chosen. "I have never gone into a competition feeling confident. I always respect the opposition and I know we have all worked hard to be here," he continued. I found this surprising because a lot of individuals make crossfitters sound like a cocky, big headed, self centered species. I believe this invitational was held to increase public awareness of the sport and get more personal with the athletes that were involved. Unlike the Crossfit Games, this invitational only consisted of a few athletes. Fans, could follow up on their progress and get a better understanding of their mindset.
     The event was broken up into four stages. After two events in the first stage it was tied 2-2. Stage two consisted of a battle of strength. It was a close battle but the score ended up being 7 to 6, Team USA. At the end of stage three, Team USA showed its dominance and won the whole stage, leaving Europe with 6 points. Finally in stage 4, Team USA wrapped up the competition by once again, winning the entire stage. The final score ended up being 20 to 6. Even after the defeat, Captain of Team Europe Annie Thoridottir says, "I was immensely proud of our team. We came here as underdogs and put up an amazing performance. We have learned a lot about each other in the short time. I am sure if the even takes place again next year we will come back stronger." This quote clearly defends my earlier statement that Crossfit athletes are humble. They are quite confident in their skills but what professional athlete isn't? As the first invitational, this event was a true success and I can't wait for more upcoming events as the sport keeps increasing in popularity.

http://games.crossfit.com/article/team-usa-wins-first-crossfit-invitational