We are just one sleep away from the start of the 2017 CrossFit Regionals. The action begins on Friday morning in Albany, New York for the East Regional. The teams start bright and early at 9am Eastern time. So for all of you in the Pacific time zone, set your alarm clocks.
We’ve already looked at the South Regional team competition, so let’s turn our attention to the East.
1. Pro1 Montreal
While many are likely to pick the #1 team to be full of individual CrossFit Games veterans, there is something to be said about an affiliate that has been there before. That team, Pro1 Montreal, was dominant in 2014 and 2015, but had some difficult at last year’s Regional. This year, however, they look hungry and are ready to make it back to the Games. The team absolutely crushed the Canada East region in the Open. The team finished 1st in four of the five Open workouts. While you may not recognize the names, the team will be in the hunt all weekend.
2. Reebok CrossFit One
When Austin Malleolo and Spencer Hendel announced that they would be creating a team for the 2017 CrossFit Games season, they were immediately one of the favorites to challenge Rich Froning’s CrossFit Mayhem team. While as individuals the team is very strong, watching how they react to the Worm in competition will determine if they can win the Regional. But regardless of whether they win or not, we fully expect to see them in Madison this August.
3. CrossFit Milford
Led by coach Jason Leydon, CrossFit Milford has been to the CrossFit Games multiple years with various rosters. This year, led by Trevor James and Nick DelGrande, keep an eye out for them to be in contention all weekend long. While they may not have the pure firepower that a team like Reebok CrossFit One has, their experience and coach will have them prepared.
4. Team Back Bay
If you haven’t heard about Tola Morakinyo, stop what you are doing and check him out! The guy has a 380-pound power clean and a 315-pound snatch. Combine him with Jessa Lemoine and Mike Abgarian and the team has plenty of strength and experience to compete alongside anyone.
5. East Woodbridge
You might recognize this team as last year’s JaktRX Red team that made it to the CrossFit Games. With a few roster changes it’s not the same team, but enough of the team is returning to be in contention to make it back to the Games.
