“I’ve got one goal, and one goal only, and that’s an Olympic gold medal.” - Justin Lester, U.S. Olympian
Justin Lester
Two-time World bronze medalist looking to cash in during first trip to Olympics
By Tim Hipps U.S. Army wrestler Justin Lester has just one goal remaining on the mat.
“One goal and one goal only,” Lester said. “An Olympic medal. Not even an Olympic medal, I need gold.” Lester, a five-time U.S. World Team member, will make his Olympic debut Aug. 7 in London. He will accept nothing less than getting his hand raised and hearing “The Star-Spangled Banner” played at the end of the day. Lester, 28, a native of Akron, Ohio, who is stationed at Fort Carson, Colo., heads to England as USA Wrestling’s reigning Greco-Roman Wrestler of the Year. That honor was bestowed upon Lester on the eve of his victory in the 66-kilogram/145.5- pound finals of the 2012 U.S. Olympic Team Trials at Carver- Hawkeye Arena on the University of Iowa campus. A two-time bronze medalist at the World Championships, Lester has more than ample motivation to succeed at the Olympics.
“I’ve had two bronze medals, and they’re alright, but I need an Olympic gold medal,” he said. “That’s eating at me more than anything, that I don’t have that gold medal.” Lester dedicated this mission to family members lost along his long journey.
In January of 2007, Lester lost his grandmother, Savannah, and niece, ShawRica, within a 24-hour span. ShawRica, 18, was leaving a nightclub in Akron when she got caught in the crossfire of rival gangs.
“She was basically like my sister because all of my siblings Continued on page 7
6 USA Wrestler
Lester won World bronze medals in 2006 and 2007, and placed fifth in the World in 2011. Larry Slater photo.
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