Vashti Cunningham, Joe Kovacs, Valarie Allman, Curtis Thompson, and Sam Mattis are all representing Team USA in the field events at the 2024 Paris Games. Vashti Cunningham, daughter of Philadelphia Eagles legend Randall Cunningham, is aiming for gold in the women’s high jump. She has competed in the Olympics before and is determined to set records this time around. After winning gold at the 2024 Penn Relays, Cunningham is ready for the competition.
Joe Kovacs, a two-time Olympic shotput silver medalist, is hoping to secure his first gold medal at the Paris Olympics. Born and raised in Pennsylvania, Kovacs has a history of winning, thanks to his mother’s coaching and support. Despite not making it to the finals in the shot put qualification round, Kovacs walked away with a silver medal on Day 8.
Valarie Allman, from Hershey, Pennsylvania, already has an Olympic gold medal in discus throwing from the 2020 Tokyo Games. Now, she is aiming for another gold medal in the javelin throw at the Paris Olympics. Allman’s exceptional talent and experience make her a strong contender for the top spot.
Curtis Thompson, a javelin thrower from Newark, New Jersey, represented the USA at the 2020 Tokyo Games but has yet to win a medal. Thompson is known for his hard work and talent in the sport, and he is determined to change his luck in Paris. Packing and transporting javelins can be a challenge for athletes, but Thompson is prepared for any situation.
Sam Mattis, an Olympian from East Brunswick, New Jersey, is competing in the men’s discus throw event. After finishing 8th in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Mattis is back with a vengeance, hoping to secure his first Olympic medal. With his East Coast roots and experience in the sport, Mattis is ready to give his all in Paris.
These five athletes represent the strength and determination of Team USA in the field events at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Each competitor has a unique story and background that has led them to this moment, where they will strive for glory on the world stage. As they face fierce competition from around the globe, these athletes will leave everything on the field in pursuit of Olympic gold.