2021 North American Open Series 2 Moved to Albuquerque

Colorado Springs, Colorado and Calgary, Alberta (May 18, 2021) -- After thoughtful consideration, USA Weightlifting (USAW) and the Canadian Weightlifting Federation Haltérophile Canadienne (CWFHC) announced today it will relocate the North American Open Series 2 event, scheduled for September 15-19 from Calgary, Alberta to Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Due to the uncertainty surrounding travel restrictions and the status of the United States-Canada border this fall, USAW and CWFHC jointly decided torelocate the event in 2021 with plans to hold it in Calgary in 2022.

“While we are disappointedthat we can’t make it to Calgary this year, we are thankful for our partners at the CWFHCwho have been wonderful in getting this idea off the ground,” said Phil Andrews, USAW CEO. “We look forward to coming to Calgary next year.” 

“While the delay is disappointing, we want everyone who competes to have a great experience when they visit Calgary. Postponing the event until September 2022 helps ensure that,” said Craig Walker, President and Director of CWFHC.

The North American Open Series 2 in Albuquerque will run during the same dates, September 15-19, as the originally scheduled event in Calgary.

All athletes who have registered for the event in Calgary will have their registration fees refunded automatically. Athletes wishing to lift in New Mexico must register through BARS by the published registration deadline. Registration is currently open in BARS for the relocated event in Albuquerque. 

“We are honored to host the USA Weightlifting 2021 North American Open Series 2 this September and are thrilled this group has made the decision to return to Albuquerque,” said Tania Armenta, President & CEO of Visit Albuquerque. “Our winning combination of world-class facilities, proven track record of success and dedicated partners at the Albuquerque Convention Center and Joaquin Chavez with High Desert Athletic Club make hosting events of this caliber a reality.”

For this event, a hybrid option will be available to athletes wishing to lift at home. Due to the increased staffing and infrastructure needed to carry out the hybrid event, the hybrid option registration fee will be $225 USD. 

Canadian athletes are encouraged to participate in either the in-person or hybrid event. 

Updated hotel booking links will be available next week.