Thank you to all the competitors and supporters who came to Atlanta and participated in the 2024 Amateur Championship. It was an incredible event that brought together new players and seasoned veterans under one roof, showcasing the best aspects of this community. The tournament featured an exciting group stage format for the first two days, giving throwers more opportunities to compete, bond, and experience the spirit of camaraderie that defines our community.
We also want to thank the dedicated staff and judges who made this event possible. Your hard work and commitment ensured the weekend ran smoothly, and your passion for the sport truly shone through.
This event was designed to showcase the Amateurs of our sport. It aimed to highlight the up-and-comers who are quickly making their mark while fostering a sense of fun and community. It created an atmosphere of shared respect and joy.
A quote from our previous Amateur Champion, Erik Rimblas:
“Last year, winning the first-ever Amateur Championship was life-changing. After that win, I would forever be a champion and that is something beyond words. This past weekend though, I witnessed the most engaged and hopeful tournament that WATL has ever hosted. Over three days, I was able to witness throwers from almost all levels, competing with each other as true peers. The camaraderie was instantaneous. Their support of each other was infectious. And at the very end of it, I was able to hand a championship ring to the new, reigning WATL Amateur Champion. I’m sure the experience will be no different for our new champ. Simply amazing. Even more amazing though, was how this tournament brought throwers from all walks of life and skill levels together to crown our new champion.”
Amateur Champion – Tommy Runkel
“After this weekend has finally set in, I am feeling super thankful for everyone who has been a part of my throwing journey. I think the Amateur Championship, along with the Pro/Am Duals, is an amazing platform for us Amateurs. I honestly never would have imagined walking away from this weekend with two wins. It’s been such an incredible experience, and I’m truly grateful for everyone that I have met, the support I have received, and everyone pushing me to get better.” – Tommy Runkel
There were 12 World Championship bids up for grabs for the Amateurs at this event, so congratulations to the following competitors for earning their bids:
Tommy Runkel
Wade Pettus
Ryoichi Fujita
Chara Green
Serafin Maldonado
Tyrell Lacy
Tom Lickliter
Austin Luecke
Hagen Goodin
Jeff Culp
Jayden Thompson
Davontae Washington
Once bids for the World Championship are calculated, additional bids may be awarded to the next highest placements from the Amateur Championship. If this occurs, WATL will contact the eligible throwers directly with further details.
This event also featured the prestigious Commissioner’s Cup and the exciting Pro/Am Duals, held alongside the Amateur Championship. The Commissioner’s Cup was an exclusive, invite-only tournament for the sport’s top throwers. These skilled competitors not only showcased their incredible talent but also took the time to support the Amateurs throughout the weekend, and for that, we are truly grateful.
Pro/Am Duals was introduced as an additional event to round out the weekend’s schedule. The response was overwhelming, with a fantastic number of teams signing up! Teams were made up of either one Pro and one Amateur thrower, or two Amateurs. The format led to thrilling competition, and the event was a highlight of the weekend!
Commissioner’s Cup Champion – Dylan Teets
2nd place – Neil Rust
3rd Place – Zach Strobis
Thank you to Rain Axe Company and Jessica Renner for their amazing work crafting the Commissioner’s Cup trophy axe. The handle from Rain Axe Company was commissioned out of wenge and maple wood, accented by Roarockit veneer and epoxy inlays. The King of Diamonds head was cerakoted by Rain Axe and was laser engraved with an illustration of the Atlanta skyline by Jessica Renner.
Pro/Am Duals Champions – Tommy Runkel & Noah Vargas
2nd place – Sebastian Arnold & Joshua Babael
3rd place – Krissy Teets & Dylan Teets
It would be a mistake not to recognize those individuals who may not have won this time but came very close. A huge congrats for their accomplishments and stellar performances! For a full breakdown of placements for each discipline, check out the standings below.
A special thank you to our sponsors: Elm City Axe Boards, Sublimewear USA, and New Realm Brewing, whose support helped make this event a success. We are also deeply grateful to our host venues, Bad Axe Throwing and American Axes, for their incredible hospitality and dedication throughout the weekend.
Finally, thank you to everyone who made this event possible—especially our competitors. This sport wouldn’t have the heart and soul it does without your passion, energy, and commitment.
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