From Knoxville to Paris: A Local Champion’s Journey of Strength, Family, and Olympic Glory
7/18/2024
Sandy Kitts, a dedicated employee at Tennova Healthcare - North Knoxville Medical Center for 44 years, has an Olympian in her family. Sandy’s son, Wesley Kitts is a local hero whose journey to the 2024 Paris Olympics resonates deeply with the community. Wesley's path from a small-town gym to a global stage of elite athletes is a testament to the power of perseverance and the enduring spirit of familial love.
In the heart of Knoxville, Tennessee, where the rolling hills meet the vibrant cityscape, lies "Be Somebody," a gym pulsating with the energy of dreams and determination and Wesley is at its helm. Known affectionately as Wes, he is not just a weightlifter preparing for his final Olympic games; he's a beacon of resilience and dedication. His story is intertwined with deep roots in Knoxville, where his father, Stacy Kitts, instilled in him a passion for sports from a young age. Sadly, Stacy's life was cut short by lung cancer when Wes was only 21. It was a devastating loss that could have derailed any young man's dreams, but Wes found solace and purpose in the weightlifting arena, honoring his father's memory with every lift and inspired by the example of excellence set by his mother.
As Wes gears up for his last Olympic appearance, he finds himself surrounded by unwavering support. His wife and two young boys are making the journey to Paris, along with his mother Sandy and her new husband, who will lovingly care for the children while Wes competes. Sandy beams with pride as she reflects on her son's journey from a small-town gym to the global stage.
“I am so proud of Wesley and what he has accomplished. Appearing in the Olympics once is a true honor; however, as he has said "Things are different this second time." His wife will be by his side and his two young boys will be there watching. I pray they will realize his dedication and hard work to his sport of choice and the pride Wesley has in representing the United States of America,” says Sandy Kitts.
The road to Paris has been paved with hard work and determination. Wes, one of the select few representing the United States, made history in Tokyo in 2020, setting a record 109kg Snatch American record when he matched the record standard of 177kg which has inspired a new generation of athletes at his gym and beyond. His return to Knoxville in 2021 marked a new chapter as he opened "Be Somebody," a gym where dreams are nurtured and celebrated. His gym echoes with laughter, encouragement, and the clink of weights as members of all ages and abilities push themselves to be their best.
As the opening ceremonies of the Paris Olympics approach on July 26, the excitement in Knoxville grows palpable. Messages of support flood social media and the local news is abuzz with Wes's upcoming Olympic feat. But amidst the fanfare, Wes remains grounded, reflecting on the journey that brought him here – the highs, the lows, and the unwavering support of his family, friends, and the Knoxville community.
For Wes, the Paris Olympics are more than a competition; they are a culmination of a lifetime of dedication and a tribute to his father's enduring legacy. Each lift, and each cheer from the stands will resonate with the spirit of a young boy who once dreamed big in the hills of Tennessee and now stands tall on the world stage.
In Knoxville, at "Be Somebody," the countdown to Paris is not just about one man's quest for Olympic glory; it's about the power of dreams and the resilience of the human spirit. As Wes Kitts prepares to lift not just weights but the hopes of a community, he reminds us all that with unwavering determination, even the loftiest goals can be within our grasp.
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