2014 CrossFit Regionals: Canada West Preview

The 2014 Canada West Regional takes place this weekend (May 9-11) in Vancouver, B.C. with two spots to compete at the CrossFit Games up for grabs in each division.

Here’s a quick preview of the Region and a closer look at the top female and male athletes competing in the three day competition:

Men

Lucas Parker has been the standout performer in Canada West over the past few years, claiming the 2011 and 2013 Regional titles and will once again be the man to beat in 2014.

However, the man with the beard faces a tough field this year which includes 2012 Champion Jeremy Meredith, 2013 Games qualifier Tyson Takasaki, and regional veteran Jason Cain.

This year has also seen a few new faces join the region including Brent Fikowski, a top 10 finisher at the 2013 Australia Regional. The 23 year old finished the Open in 2nd place in the region and will be aiming for another solid performance this weekend.

Jonathan Gibson, the top qualifier in the Region will also be someone to keep an eye on. So too is Michael Fitzgerald, the younger brother of 2007 CrossFit Games champion, James ‘OPT’ Fitzgerald.

2013 Regional Results:

1. Lucas Parker
2. Tyson Takasaki
3. Joey Lutz

Women

The female’s division is wide open in Canada West with last year’s Regional Champion Heather Gillespie taking the year off due to injury, and fellow 2013 Games qualifier Erin Light not competing either.

Jayde Quilty, who finished 6th at last year’s Regional is the top qualifier in the field and will be one of the favourites to finish on the podium. Third place finisher last year, Erica Livett is also expected to be one of the top performers.

Other names to keep and eye on include Emily Beers (3rd at 2012 Regionals), and top ten finishers last year, Whitney Darchuk and Nancy McKeage.

2013 Regional Results:

1. Heather Gillespie
2. Erin Light
3. Erica Livett

Predictions

Male Champion – Lucas Parker

Female Champion – Emily Beers

Team Winner – The CENTAURS

Surprise Packet – Brent Fikowski