Light the torch and cue that iconic Olympics theme song — we’re locked in on the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics happening through this Sunday, Aug. 11.
At this summer’s Olympic Games, approximately 10,500 athletes from 206 National Olympic Committees will compete across 32 sports — including some new ones. Since we’re all about keeping it local, we’ve rounded up four Paris 2024 Olympians with ties to Lakeland and nearby cities that you should keep your eye on. Let the Games begin.
Monae’ Nichols, Women’s Long Jump
Auburndale High School alum Nichols jumped 6.86 meters in her final attempt at the Olympic Trials — the exact distance she needed to qualify for the Olympic Games. She passed the qualification round to compete in the Long Jump finals on Thursday, Aug. 8.
Victor Montalvo, Breaking
Better known as “B-boy Victor,” breaker Montalvo is a native of Kissimmee, not too far east of Lakeland. Montalvo is the US’ highest-ranked male breaker, and he was the first American to qualify for this event that was introduced this year. Breaking events are Friday, Aug. 9 + Saturday, Aug. 10.
Dylan Travis, Men’s 3x3 Basketball
This former Moc played on Florida Southern College’s basketball team, helping them win a NCAA Division II National Championship in 2015. The Olympic team put up a good fight, even winning over silver medalist France during the pool rounds. Read our Q+A with Travis.
Tracy Otto, Para Archery
Plant City native Otto will head to her first Paralympics, representing Team USA. Otto lost her left eye and was paralyzed from the chest down after a domestic violence attack — now, she advocates for domestic violence survivors. Catch her in Para Archery, happening Aug. 28-Sept. 5.
