Pope graduate Hampton Morris makes history in Olympic debut

Since the first modern Olympic games in 1896, weightlifting has ranked near the bottom of the list of sports when it comes to the United States eared medals with just 44 combined. Georgia has been successful in per capita Olympians sent to the games and the Peach State is 12th in the states with the most Gold medals overall, but a medal mens weight lifting had eluded the United States since the 1984 games. On Wednesday, 20-year-old Hampton Morrisa Pope High School grad, made history by earning a bronze medal in weightlifting and breaking a 40-year drought.

Morris first-ever Olympics brought historic success, but the real excitement comes from the bright future for the young star. Morriswho is coached by his father Tripphas trained out of their garage and travelled the world setting junior records along the way. On Wednesday, Morris overcame a failed second attempt in the snatch and lost his footing. The 61 kg competitor added the weight to 126 kg for his third attempt and saved his pursuit for a medal by sticking the snatch. Morris finished the competition with the clean and jerk and secured a medal with a successful 172 kg (379 pound) lift. With the bronze secured, he attempted a world record attempt of 178 that would move him into second place, but he just missed.

Morris was the youngest medalist in the weight lifting category and he will have his eyes set on earning a gold when the 2028 games come around. Not only has Morris story inspired athletes across the board, but his success has brought a spotlight to the sport that has been absent during the 40-year medal drought.

Its amazing that Im able to leave that kind of mark in the sport, Morris said after finishing third in the mens 61-kilogramdivision. Im just in disbelief.