Mens Freestyle bouts finalized for Beat the Streets in Times Square May 7
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by Gary Abbott USA Wrestling
Graphic depicts US star Brent Metcalf and Russian star Magomed Kurbanaliev, who will wrestle at 65 kg in Times Square on May 7.
NEW YORK, May 2, 2014 – The nine men’s freestyle match-ups have been finalized for the Team USA vs. The World All-Stars international wrestling competition in support of “Beat the Streets,” set for May 7 at New York's Times Square.
Earlier this week, two pairings were announced: two-time Hodge Trophy winner David Taylor of State College, Pa., vs. two-time World medalist Yabrail Hasanov of Azerbaijan at 74 kg/163 lbs.; and two-time NCAA champion Jordan Oliver of Stillwater, Okla. vs. European Championships runner-up Boris Novachkov of Bulgaria at 65 kg/143 lbs. The other seven men’s pairings have now been completed.
Two of the pairings will feature past Olympic and World gold medalists.
At 74 kg/163 lbs., 2012 Olympic champion and two-time World champion Jordan Burroughs of Lincoln, Neb. will battle talented young Russian Atsamaz Sanakoev of Russia. Burroughs is a three-time World Cup champion, a three-time U.S. Open champion and a 2011 Pan American Games champion with an amazing 81-1 career record on the Senior level. Sanakoev was third in the 2012 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix and a 2013 Dave Schultz Memorial champion. Burroughs edged Sanakoev 7-6 in the finals of the 2013 Stepan Sargsyan International in Armenia.
At 97 kg/213 lbs., 2004 Olympic champion and five-time World champion Khadjimurat Gatsalov of Russia will square off with 2013 Junior World champion Kyle Snyder of Woodbine, Md. Gatsalov has also been a 2010 World silver medalist, a 2007 Military World champion and a 2001 Junior World champion. Gatsalov, 30, is one of the greats of his era. Snyder, 18 and still in high school, is one of the top young stars in world today.
At 65 kg/143 lbs., three-time NCAA champion Logan Stieber of Monroeville, Ohio will take on Haislan Garcia of Canada. In his three seasons for Ohio State, Stieber has been NCAA champion each year. He was a Junior World silver medalist in 2011. Stieber placed third in the 2014 and 2009 U.S. Open. Garcia placed fifth at the 2010 World Championships and eighth in the 2013 World Championships. A two-time Olympian, he was seventh at the 2012 Olympic Games.
Another big battle at 65 kg/143 lbs. will feature two-time World Team member Brent Metcalf of Iowa City, Iowa against 2013 World bronze medalist Magomed Kurbanaliev of Russia. Metcalf was a two-time NCAA champion and Hodge Trophy winner at Iowa. He won the 2011 Olympic Test event in England and was second in the 2013 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix. Kurbanaliev also boasts a 2013 World University Games title, a 2014 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix title and a 2012 Junior World gold medal. In 2013, Metcalf defeated Kurbanaliev in the semifinals of the Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix.
Three-time NCAA champion Ed Ruth of Harrisburg, Pa., will take on Taymuraz Friev of Spain at 86 kg/189 lbs. Ruth was the first three-time NCAA champion in Penn State history. He placed third at the U.S. Open in both 2013 and 2014 and was a member of the 2013 U.S. University World Games team. Friev placed a strong fifth at the 2013 World Championships. He won gold medals at the 2014 Grand Prix of Paris in France, and the 2013 Grand Prix of Spain.
A competitive bout is expected at 61 kg/134 lbs., where 2014 U.S. Open champion Jimmy Kennedy of Ann Arbor, Mich. battles talented Alexander Bogomoev of Russia. Kennedy was second in the 2013 World Team Trials, and has won medals in nine international events the last three seasons, including gold medals in events held in Turkey, Russia, Canada and the United States. Bogomoev has been equally successful, with 11 medals on the international circuit over the last three seasons, including nine gold medals. He was also second in the 2011 and 2013 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix. Bogomoev has beaten Kennedy in their last two meetings, in a dual meet in Ithaca, N.Y. in 2013 and at the Ramzan Kadyrov Cup in Russia in 2012.
In a battle of rising 20-year-old talents, Nahshon Garrett of Chico, Calif., will take on Georgi Vangelov of Bulgaria at 57 kg/125.5 lbs. Garrett was a 2013 NCAA runner-up for Cornell as a sophomore and placed third as a freshman. He was a three-time Junior Nationals All-American. Vangelov was second in the 2011 Junior World Championships and fifth in the 2013 Junior World Championships. He was also a 2012 Junior World Beach Wrestling champion.
The opponents for the two U.S. women freestyle wrestlers on the card, Helen Maroulis of Rockville, Md. at 55 kg/121 lbs. and Randi Miller of Colorado Springs, Colo. at 69 kg/152 lbs. are yet to be announced. In addition, exhibitions involving the young Beat the Streets athletes prior to the international competition will be announced as they are set.
The purpose of this event is to elevate the profile of wrestling and to raise funds to support the operation of over 140 youth development wrestling programs in New York City, serving nearly 3,000 student-athletes.
The USA vs. the World dual requires a ticket for reserved seating in Times Square, but is an outdoor event. Pedestrians and non-ticket holders are encouraged to watch. Admission tickets may be bought in advance at www.btsny.org or 212.245.6570. A ticket is required for the Gala. More details are available at btsny.org/gala. Fans can join the conversation about the event on Twitter by utilizing #BTSGalaTSQ.
The world-class competition has twice before been held in Times Square. Last year the event moved to historic Grand Central Terminal, where it was also a huge success. Dubbed “The Rumble on the Rails,” it featured dual meets between Team USA, Russia and Iran and was an important part of the international Keep Olympic Wrestling effort, which resulted in wrestling retaining its status on the Olympic Games program.
This will be the fifth straight year in which a major international-style wrestling competition will be hosted as part of the Beat the Streets Gala activities. In 2010, an all-star challenge featuring top U.S. wrestlers was held on the USS Intrepid, an aircraft carrier docked on the west side of Manhattan. In 2011, the United States defeated World champion Russia, 5-2, the first sports event ever held in historic Times Square. In 2012, another U.S. vs. Russia dual meet was held in Times Square, along with the U.S. Olympic Team Wrestle-off for the 60 kg/132 lbs. position on the U.S. Olympic Team in men’s freestyle. All of these events have been great showcases for international wrestling and have received major media coverage.
Announced Pairings for Beat the Streets Team USA vs. World All-Stars
As of 5/2/14
57 kg/125.5 lbs. – Nahshon Garrett (USA) vs. George Vangelov (Bulgaria)
61 kg/134 lbs. – Jimmy Kennedy (USA) vs. Aleksandr Bogomoev (Russia)
65 kg/143 lbs. – Logan Stieber (USA) vs. Haislan Garcia (Canada)
65 kg/143 lbs. – Jordan Oliver (USA) vs. Boris Novachkov (Bulgaria)
65 kg/143 lbs. – Brent Metcalf (USA) vs. Magomed Kurbanaliev (Russia)
74 kg/163 lbs. – David Taylor (USA) vs. Yabrail Hasanov (Azerbaijan)
74 kg/163 lbs. – Jordan Burroughs (USA) vs. Atsamaz Sanakoev (Russia)
86 kg/189 lbs. – Ed Ruth (USA) vs. Taymuraz Friev (Spain)
97 kg/213 lbs. – Kyle Snyder (USA) vs. Khadjimurat Gatsalov (Russia)
Women’s pairings to come
55 kg/121 lbs. – Helen Maroulis (USA) vs. opponent TBA
69 kg/152 lbs. – Randi Miller (USA) vs. opponent TBA
About Beat The Streets
The mission of Beat the Streets is to develop the full human and athletic potential of the urban youth and to strengthen the culture of New York City wrestling. BTSW works directly with the New York City Department of Education in a public-private partnership to help New York City's student-athletes achieve their personal and athletic goals. Through the operation of wrestling programs in middle and high schools in the five boroughs, BTSW and the DOE provide a safe, positive atmosphere in which disadvantaged and at-risk youth can learn the essential life skills of physical fitness, teamwork, and self-empowerment. The goal of fostering strong, dedicated, and optimistic kids is delivered through coaching, after-school programs, and mentoring. More information can be found at www.btsny.org.
About USA Wrestling
USA Wrestling is the National Governing Body for the Sport of Wrestling in the United States and, as such, is its representative to the United States Olympic Committee and the International Wrestling Federation FILA. Simply, USA Wrestling is the central organization that coordinates amateur wrestling programs in the nation and works to create interest and participation in these programs. Its president is James Ravannack, and its Executive Director is Rich Bender.
Men’s freestyle matchup biographies
57 kg/125.5 lbs. men’s freestyle
Nahshon Garrett, Chico, Calif. (Finger Lakes RTC)
Second in 2014 NCAA Championships for Cornell… Third in 2013 NCAA Championships… Two-time EIWA champion (2013, 2014)… 2014 EIWA Wrestler of the Year… 2014 Ivy League Wrestler of the Year… 2013 EIWA and Ivy League Freshman of the Year… Sixth in 2012 FILA Junior Nationals… Seventh in 2011 Junior Nationals in freestyle… Fourth in 2010 Junior Nationals in Greco-Roman and eighth in freestyle… Two-time California state high school champion for Chico High School… Born: August 21, 1993… Age: 20
Georgi Vangelov, Bulgaria
Ninth in 2013 and 2014 European Championships… Ninth in 2014 Dan Kolov International (Bulgaria)… Fifth in 2013 Junior World Championships… Third in 2013 European Junior Championships… Fifth in 2013 Dan Kolov International (Bulgaria)… Fifth in 2012 Moscow Lights (Russia)… 2012 Junior World Beach champion…Second in 2011 Junior World Championships… 2010 European Cadet champion… Born: July 29, 1993… Age: 20
61 kg/134 lbs. men’s freestyle
Jimmy Kennedy, Ann Arbor, Mich. (New York AC/Michigan RTC)
2014 U.S. Open champion… Second in 2013 World Team Trials… 2013 Yasar Dogu International champion (Turkey)… Third in 2013 FILA Golden Grand Prix Finals (Azerbaijan)… Second in 2013 Ramzan Kadyrov Cup (Russia)… 2013 Intercontinental Cup champion (Russia)… Second in 2013 Medved International (Belarus)… 2012 New York AC International Open champion… 2012 and 2013 Guelph Open champion (Canada)… Seventh in 2012 University World Championships… Second in 2013 Alexander Medved International (Belarus)… Third in 2011 Freestyle Olympic Trials Qualifier… 2012 Guelph Open champion (Canada)… Fourth in 2011 Sunkist Kids International… Second in 2010 University World Team Trials… Seventh in 2005 Junior Nationals… 2004 Cadet Nationals champion… Three-time NCAA All-American for Illinois… Two-time Illinois state high school champion… College: Illinois… High School: Fox Lake, Ill. (Grant Community)… Born: July 3, 1988… Age: 25
Aleksandr Bogomoev, Russia
2014 Dave Schultz Memorial International champion (USA)… Ninth in 2014 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix… 2013 New York AC International champion (USA)… 2012 and 2013 Buryatia Republic President’s Cup champion (Russia)… Fourth in 2012 and 2013 World Cup… Second in 2011 and 2013 Ivan Yarygin Memorial Grand Prix (Russia)… 2012 Moscow Lights champion (Russia)… 2012 Ramzan Kadirov International champion (Russia)… 2012 Dmitry Korkin International champion (Russia)… 2012 Olympia Tournament champion (Greece)… 2012 Yasar Dogu International champion (Turkey)… Third in 2012 Ivan Yarygin Memorial Grand Prix (Russia)… 2011 Dmitry Korkin International champion (Russia)… Eighth in 2011 FILA Golden Grand Prix Finals… Seventh in 2011 World Cup… Born: November 17, 1989… Age: 24
65 kg/143 lbs. men’s freestyle
Jordan Oliver, Stillwater, Okla. (Titan Mercury WC)
Second in 2013 World Team Trials… Second in 2013 U.S. Open… Sixth in 2014 U.S. Open… Wildcard selection for Olympic Trials… Third in 2009 Junior World Championships… Third in 2010 FILA Junior World Team Trials… 2009 FILA Junior World Team Trials champion… 2009 University Nationals champion… 2009 FILA Junior Nationals champion… 2007 Junior Nationals champion… 2011 and 2013 NCAA champion for Oklahoma State… 2012 NCAA runner-up… Three-time Pennsylvania high school champion… College: Oklahoma State… High School: Easton, Pa…. Born: May 8, 1990… Age: 23
Boris Novachkov, Bulgaria
Second in 2014 European Championships… Second in 2014 Dan Kolov International (Bulgaria)… Fifth in 2014 Yasar Dogu International (Turkey)… Fourth in 2014 Dave Schultz Memorial International (USA)… Third in 2013 New York AC International (USA)… Third in 2013 Dave Schultz Memorial International (USA)… 2009 U.S. FILA Junior Nationals champion… 2007 U.S. Junior Nationals champion in Greco-Roman and second in freestyle… Third in 2006 U.S. Junior Nationals in both Greco-Roman and freestyle…2005 U.S. Junior Nationals champion in Greco-Roman and freestyle… 2011 NCAA runner-up for Cal Poly… Third in 2012 NCAA Championships… Seventh in 2010 NCAA Championships… 2006 and 2007 California state high school champion for Fremont High School… Born: November 29, 1989… Age: 24
65 kg/143 lbs. men’s freestyle
Logan Stieber, Monroeville, Ohio (New York AC/Ohio RTC)
Third in 2014 U.S. Open… Third in 2013 World Team Trials… Fourth in 2013 U.S. Open… 2012 Ziolkowski International champion (Poland)… Second in 2013 U.S. Olympic Team Trials… Second in 2011 Junior World Championships… 2011 Northeast Regional champion… Third at 2009 U.S. Open… Fourth at 2009 and 2011 World Team Trials… Sixth in 2010 U.S. Open… Second at 2009 FILA Junior World Team Trials… 2008 FILA Junior Nationals champion… 2008 Junior Nationals champion in both styles… 2008 FILA Junior Nationals champion… 2007 Cadet Nationals champion… 2007 FILA Cadet Nationals champion… Three-time NCAA champion for Ohio State (2012, 2013, 2014)… Four-time high school state champion in Ohio… 2010 Dave Schultz High School Excellence award national winner… Younger brother Hunter is an NCAA All-American for Ohio State… College: Ohio State… High School: Monroeville, Ohio… Born: January 24, 1991… Age: 23
Haislan Garcia, Canada
Seventh in 2012 Olympic Games… Fifth in 2010 World Championships… Eighth in 2013 World Championships… 2008 Olympian… 2013 Grand Prix of Germany champion… 2012 Pan American Olympic Qualification Tournament champion… 2012 Canadian Olympic Trials champion… 2009 and 2011 Canadian World Team member… 2012 Canada Cup champion… 2010 and 2011 Dave Schultz Memorial champion (USA)… Second in 2012 Ziolkowski International (Poland)… Second in 2008 and 2009 Pan American Championships… Third in 2010 and 2011 Pan American Championships… Third in 2013 Dave Schultz Memorial International (USA)… Second in 2010 Tbilisi Tournament (Georgia)… Born: March 4, 1983… Age: 31
65 kg/143 lbs. men’s freestyle
Brent Metcalf, Iowa City, Iowa (New York AC/Hawkeye WC)
2014 U.S. Open champion… Member of 2010 and 2013 U.S. World Team… Second in 2012 U.S. Olympic Team Trials... Second in 2013 World Cup... 2012 Stepan Sargsyan International champion (Armenia)… Second in 2013 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix (Russia)… 2011 Olympic Test Event champion (England)… Second in 2012 Pan American Olympic Qualifier, qualifying USA for Olympics… 2011 Takhti Cup runner-up (Iran)… Second in 2011 U.S. World Team Trials… Third in 2011 and 2013 U.S. Open… Second in 2009 U.S. Open… Fifth in 2008 U.S. Open… Third in 2010 FILA Golden Grand Prix Finals (Azerbaijan)… Third in 2009 Pan American Championships… 2008 and 2010 NCAA champion for the Univ. of Iowa… 2009 NCAA runner-up… 2008 Dan Hodge Trophy winner as nation’s top college wrestler… 2006 Clansman International champion… Competed in 2006 FILA Junior World Championships… 2006 FILA Junior World Team Trials champion… Four-time Michigan state champion… Six-time Junior Nationals champion, tying national record with Sean Hage of Georgia… College: Univ of Iowa, Virginia Tech… High School: Davison, Mich…. Born: July 14, 1986… Age: 27
Magomed Kurbanaliev, Russia
Third in 2013 World Championships… 2013 World University Games champion… 2014 European champion… 2014 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix champion (Russia)… 2012 Junior World Champion…. 2013 Ali Aliev Tournament champion (Russia)… 2013 Dave Schultz Memorial International champion (USA)… Fifth in 2013 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix (Russia)… 2011 World Cup champion… Second in 2011 Ramzan Kadyrov Cup (Russia)… Second in 2010 Dave Schultz Memorial International (USA)… Born August 6, 1992… Age: 21
74 kg/163 lbs. men’s freestyle
David Taylor, State College, Pa. (Nittany Lion WC)
Second in 2013 and 2014 U.S. Open… Third in 2013 World University Games… Third in 2013 U.S. World Team Trials… 2010 and 2013 University Nationals champion…Wildcard selection for 2012 Olympic Trials… Second in 2008 and 2010 FILA Junior World Team Trials… Third in 2010 FILA Junior Nationals… 2010 University Nationals champion… Eighth in 2007 FILA Junior World Championships… 2007 Junior Nationals champion in both styles… 2006 Cadet Nationals champion in both styles… 2005 Cadet Nationals champion in freestyle and second in Greco-Roman… 2005 FILA Cadet Nationals champion in both styles… 2012 and 2014 NCAA Champion for Penn State… 2012 and 2014 Dan Hodge Trophy winner as nation’s top college wrestler… Second in 2011 and 2013 NCAA Championships… Four-time Ohio state high school champion… College: Penn State… High School: St. Paris, Ohio (St. Paris Graham)… Born: December 5, 1990… Age: 23
Yabrail Hasanov, Azerbaijan
Third in 2010 and 2011 World Championships… Fifth in 2012 Olympics… Seventh in 2009 World Championships… Eighth in 2013 World Championships… Second in 2013 World University Games… Second in 2014 European Championships… Second in 2013 World Cup… 2011 European champion… Third in 2014 Dan Kolov International (Bulgaria)… Third in 2013 FILA Golden Grand Prix Finals (Azerbaijan)…Second in 2013 Intercontinental Cup (Russia)… Third in 2012 Yasar Dogu International (Turkey)… Third in 2011 Olympic Test Event (England)… 2011 FILA Golden Grand Prix Finals champion (Azerbaijan)… Second in 2009 European Championships… Second in 2008 Junior World Championships… Third in 2007 Junior World Championships… Third in 2006 European Junior Championships… Third in 2005 European Cadet Championships… Born: February 24, 1990… Age: 24
74 kg/163 lbs. men’s freestyle
Jordan Burroughs, Lincoln, Neb. (Sunkist Kids)
2012 Olympic champion… 2011 and 2013 World champion… 2011 Pan American Games champion… 2012 and 2013 World Cup champion... 2011, 2013 and 2014 U.S. Open champion... Third in 2014 Yasar Dogu International (Turkey)… 2013 Stepan Sargsyan International champion (Ukraine)… 2013 Medved International champion (Belarus)… 2011 Ukrainian Memorial International champion… 2012 Dave Schultz Memorial champion… 2012 Cerro Pelado International champion (Cuba)… Tenth in 2008 Junior World Championships… Second in 2007 University Nationals… 2009 and 2011 NCAA champion for Nebraska… Third in 2008 NCAA Championships… 2006 New Jersey state high school champion for Winslow Twp High in New Jersey… His 69-match win streak, broken in 2014, is the longest in USA Wrestling history… His current Senior record is 81-1… Born: July 8, 1988… Age: 25…
Atsamaz Sanakoev, Russia
Second in 2014 World Cup… Third in 2012 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix (Russia)… 10th in 2013 FILA Golden Grand Prix Finals (Azerbaijan)… 2013 Moscow Lights champion (Russia)… Second in 2013 Stepan Sargsyan International (Armenia)… 2013 Dave Schultz Memorial International champion (USA)… Third in 2012 FILA Golden Grand Prix Finals (Azerbaijan)… 2012 European Junior champion… Sixth in 2011 Junior World Cup…
86 kg/189 lbs. men’s freestyle
Ed Ruth, Harrisburg, Pa. (Nittany Lion WC)
Third in 2013 and 2014 U.S. Open… Competed in 2013 World University Games… 2013 University Nationals champion… Wildcard selection for Olympic Trials… Fourth in 2010 FILA Junior Nationals… Three-time NCAA champion for Penn State (2012, 2013, 2014)… Third in 2011 NCAA Championships… First Penn State wrestler to ever win three NCAA titles… Four-time Big Ten champion… Competed at Blair Academy… Fourth and fifth in Pennsylvania state high school championships for Susquehanna Township High School in Pennsylvania… Born: October 21, 1990… Age: 23
Taymuraz Friev, Spain
Fifth in 2013 World Championships… 2014 Grand Prix of Paris champion (France)… 2013 Grand Prix of Spain champion… Eighth in 2013 Mediterranean Games… Fifth in 2010 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix (Russia), competing for Russia… Third in 2005 European Junior Championships, competing for Russia… Born: September 15, 1986… Age: 27
97 kg/213 lbs. men’s freestyle
Kyle Snyder, Woodbine, Md. (Sunkist Kids)
2013 Junior World champion… 2013 and 2014 FILA Junior Nationals champion… 2013 FILA Junior World Team Trials champion… 2014 Cerro Pelado Junior champion (Cuba)… Third in 2013 Henri Deglane Challenge (France)… Three-time Prep School National champion for Good Council High School in Maryland… 2012 Junior National Greco-Roman champion and third in freestyle… 2011 Cadet National champion in both freestyle and Greco-Roman… 2013 ASICS High School Wrestler of the Year… 2013-14 U.S. Olympic Training Center resident athlete during his senior year in high school… Born: November 20, 1995… Age: 18
Khadjimurat Gatsalov, Russia
2004 Olympic champion… Five-time World champion (2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2013)… Second in 2010 World Championships… 2001 Junior World champion… Second in 2013 Ali Aliev Tournament (Russia)… Fifth in 2013 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix (Russia)… Competed in 2011 World Championships… Third in 2011 Ali Aliev Tournament (Russia)… Third in 2005 and 2008 European Championships… 2007 World Military Champion… 2002, 2003, 2007 World Cup champion… 2003, 2004 and 2006 European champion… Second in 2001 World Military Championships… Second in 2001 Dave Schultz Memorial International (USA)… Sixth in 2001 World Cup… Born: December 11, 1982… Age: 30
NEW YORK, May 2, 2014 – The nine men’s freestyle match-ups have been finalized for the Team USA vs. The World All-Stars international wrestling competition in support of “Beat the Streets,” set for May 7 at New York's Times Square.
Earlier this week, two pairings were announced: two-time Hodge Trophy winner David Taylor of State College, Pa., vs. two-time World medalist Yabrail Hasanov of Azerbaijan at 74 kg/163 lbs.; and two-time NCAA champion Jordan Oliver of Stillwater, Okla. vs. European Championships runner-up Boris Novachkov of Bulgaria at 65 kg/143 lbs. The other seven men’s pairings have now been completed.
Two of the pairings will feature past Olympic and World gold medalists.
At 74 kg/163 lbs., 2012 Olympic champion and two-time World champion Jordan Burroughs of Lincoln, Neb. will battle talented young Russian Atsamaz Sanakoev of Russia. Burroughs is a three-time World Cup champion, a three-time U.S. Open champion and a 2011 Pan American Games champion with an amazing 81-1 career record on the Senior level. Sanakoev was third in the 2012 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix and a 2013 Dave Schultz Memorial champion. Burroughs edged Sanakoev 7-6 in the finals of the 2013 Stepan Sargsyan International in Armenia.
At 97 kg/213 lbs., 2004 Olympic champion and five-time World champion Khadjimurat Gatsalov of Russia will square off with 2013 Junior World champion Kyle Snyder of Woodbine, Md. Gatsalov has also been a 2010 World silver medalist, a 2007 Military World champion and a 2001 Junior World champion. Gatsalov, 30, is one of the greats of his era. Snyder, 18 and still in high school, is one of the top young stars in world today.
At 65 kg/143 lbs., three-time NCAA champion Logan Stieber of Monroeville, Ohio will take on Haislan Garcia of Canada. In his three seasons for Ohio State, Stieber has been NCAA champion each year. He was a Junior World silver medalist in 2011. Stieber placed third in the 2014 and 2009 U.S. Open. Garcia placed fifth at the 2010 World Championships and eighth in the 2013 World Championships. A two-time Olympian, he was seventh at the 2012 Olympic Games.
Another big battle at 65 kg/143 lbs. will feature two-time World Team member Brent Metcalf of Iowa City, Iowa against 2013 World bronze medalist Magomed Kurbanaliev of Russia. Metcalf was a two-time NCAA champion and Hodge Trophy winner at Iowa. He won the 2011 Olympic Test event in England and was second in the 2013 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix. Kurbanaliev also boasts a 2013 World University Games title, a 2014 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix title and a 2012 Junior World gold medal. In 2013, Metcalf defeated Kurbanaliev in the semifinals of the Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix.
Three-time NCAA champion Ed Ruth of Harrisburg, Pa., will take on Taymuraz Friev of Spain at 86 kg/189 lbs. Ruth was the first three-time NCAA champion in Penn State history. He placed third at the U.S. Open in both 2013 and 2014 and was a member of the 2013 U.S. University World Games team. Friev placed a strong fifth at the 2013 World Championships. He won gold medals at the 2014 Grand Prix of Paris in France, and the 2013 Grand Prix of Spain.
A competitive bout is expected at 61 kg/134 lbs., where 2014 U.S. Open champion Jimmy Kennedy of Ann Arbor, Mich. battles talented Alexander Bogomoev of Russia. Kennedy was second in the 2013 World Team Trials, and has won medals in nine international events the last three seasons, including gold medals in events held in Turkey, Russia, Canada and the United States. Bogomoev has been equally successful, with 11 medals on the international circuit over the last three seasons, including nine gold medals. He was also second in the 2011 and 2013 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix. Bogomoev has beaten Kennedy in their last two meetings, in a dual meet in Ithaca, N.Y. in 2013 and at the Ramzan Kadyrov Cup in Russia in 2012.
In a battle of rising 20-year-old talents, Nahshon Garrett of Chico, Calif., will take on Georgi Vangelov of Bulgaria at 57 kg/125.5 lbs. Garrett was a 2013 NCAA runner-up for Cornell as a sophomore and placed third as a freshman. He was a three-time Junior Nationals All-American. Vangelov was second in the 2011 Junior World Championships and fifth in the 2013 Junior World Championships. He was also a 2012 Junior World Beach Wrestling champion.
The opponents for the two U.S. women freestyle wrestlers on the card, Helen Maroulis of Rockville, Md. at 55 kg/121 lbs. and Randi Miller of Colorado Springs, Colo. at 69 kg/152 lbs. are yet to be announced. In addition, exhibitions involving the young Beat the Streets athletes prior to the international competition will be announced as they are set.
The purpose of this event is to elevate the profile of wrestling and to raise funds to support the operation of over 140 youth development wrestling programs in New York City, serving nearly 3,000 student-athletes.
The USA vs. the World dual requires a ticket for reserved seating in Times Square, but is an outdoor event. Pedestrians and non-ticket holders are encouraged to watch. Admission tickets may be bought in advance at www.btsny.org or 212.245.6570. A ticket is required for the Gala. More details are available at btsny.org/gala. Fans can join the conversation about the event on Twitter by utilizing #BTSGalaTSQ.
The world-class competition has twice before been held in Times Square. Last year the event moved to historic Grand Central Terminal, where it was also a huge success. Dubbed “The Rumble on the Rails,” it featured dual meets between Team USA, Russia and Iran and was an important part of the international Keep Olympic Wrestling effort, which resulted in wrestling retaining its status on the Olympic Games program.
This will be the fifth straight year in which a major international-style wrestling competition will be hosted as part of the Beat the Streets Gala activities. In 2010, an all-star challenge featuring top U.S. wrestlers was held on the USS Intrepid, an aircraft carrier docked on the west side of Manhattan. In 2011, the United States defeated World champion Russia, 5-2, the first sports event ever held in historic Times Square. In 2012, another U.S. vs. Russia dual meet was held in Times Square, along with the U.S. Olympic Team Wrestle-off for the 60 kg/132 lbs. position on the U.S. Olympic Team in men’s freestyle. All of these events have been great showcases for international wrestling and have received major media coverage.
Announced Pairings for Beat the Streets Team USA vs. World All-Stars
As of 5/2/14
57 kg/125.5 lbs. – Nahshon Garrett (USA) vs. George Vangelov (Bulgaria)
61 kg/134 lbs. – Jimmy Kennedy (USA) vs. Aleksandr Bogomoev (Russia)
65 kg/143 lbs. – Logan Stieber (USA) vs. Haislan Garcia (Canada)
65 kg/143 lbs. – Jordan Oliver (USA) vs. Boris Novachkov (Bulgaria)
65 kg/143 lbs. – Brent Metcalf (USA) vs. Magomed Kurbanaliev (Russia)
74 kg/163 lbs. – David Taylor (USA) vs. Yabrail Hasanov (Azerbaijan)
74 kg/163 lbs. – Jordan Burroughs (USA) vs. Atsamaz Sanakoev (Russia)
86 kg/189 lbs. – Ed Ruth (USA) vs. Taymuraz Friev (Spain)
97 kg/213 lbs. – Kyle Snyder (USA) vs. Khadjimurat Gatsalov (Russia)
Women’s pairings to come
55 kg/121 lbs. – Helen Maroulis (USA) vs. opponent TBA
69 kg/152 lbs. – Randi Miller (USA) vs. opponent TBA
About Beat The Streets
The mission of Beat the Streets is to develop the full human and athletic potential of the urban youth and to strengthen the culture of New York City wrestling. BTSW works directly with the New York City Department of Education in a public-private partnership to help New York City's student-athletes achieve their personal and athletic goals. Through the operation of wrestling programs in middle and high schools in the five boroughs, BTSW and the DOE provide a safe, positive atmosphere in which disadvantaged and at-risk youth can learn the essential life skills of physical fitness, teamwork, and self-empowerment. The goal of fostering strong, dedicated, and optimistic kids is delivered through coaching, after-school programs, and mentoring. More information can be found at www.btsny.org.
About USA Wrestling
USA Wrestling is the National Governing Body for the Sport of Wrestling in the United States and, as such, is its representative to the United States Olympic Committee and the International Wrestling Federation FILA. Simply, USA Wrestling is the central organization that coordinates amateur wrestling programs in the nation and works to create interest and participation in these programs. Its president is James Ravannack, and its Executive Director is Rich Bender.
Men’s freestyle matchup biographies
57 kg/125.5 lbs. men’s freestyle
Nahshon Garrett, Chico, Calif. (Finger Lakes RTC)
Second in 2014 NCAA Championships for Cornell… Third in 2013 NCAA Championships… Two-time EIWA champion (2013, 2014)… 2014 EIWA Wrestler of the Year… 2014 Ivy League Wrestler of the Year… 2013 EIWA and Ivy League Freshman of the Year… Sixth in 2012 FILA Junior Nationals… Seventh in 2011 Junior Nationals in freestyle… Fourth in 2010 Junior Nationals in Greco-Roman and eighth in freestyle… Two-time California state high school champion for Chico High School… Born: August 21, 1993… Age: 20
Georgi Vangelov, Bulgaria
Ninth in 2013 and 2014 European Championships… Ninth in 2014 Dan Kolov International (Bulgaria)… Fifth in 2013 Junior World Championships… Third in 2013 European Junior Championships… Fifth in 2013 Dan Kolov International (Bulgaria)… Fifth in 2012 Moscow Lights (Russia)… 2012 Junior World Beach champion…Second in 2011 Junior World Championships… 2010 European Cadet champion… Born: July 29, 1993… Age: 20
61 kg/134 lbs. men’s freestyle
Jimmy Kennedy, Ann Arbor, Mich. (New York AC/Michigan RTC)
2014 U.S. Open champion… Second in 2013 World Team Trials… 2013 Yasar Dogu International champion (Turkey)… Third in 2013 FILA Golden Grand Prix Finals (Azerbaijan)… Second in 2013 Ramzan Kadyrov Cup (Russia)… 2013 Intercontinental Cup champion (Russia)… Second in 2013 Medved International (Belarus)… 2012 New York AC International Open champion… 2012 and 2013 Guelph Open champion (Canada)… Seventh in 2012 University World Championships… Second in 2013 Alexander Medved International (Belarus)… Third in 2011 Freestyle Olympic Trials Qualifier… 2012 Guelph Open champion (Canada)… Fourth in 2011 Sunkist Kids International… Second in 2010 University World Team Trials… Seventh in 2005 Junior Nationals… 2004 Cadet Nationals champion… Three-time NCAA All-American for Illinois… Two-time Illinois state high school champion… College: Illinois… High School: Fox Lake, Ill. (Grant Community)… Born: July 3, 1988… Age: 25
Aleksandr Bogomoev, Russia
2014 Dave Schultz Memorial International champion (USA)… Ninth in 2014 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix… 2013 New York AC International champion (USA)… 2012 and 2013 Buryatia Republic President’s Cup champion (Russia)… Fourth in 2012 and 2013 World Cup… Second in 2011 and 2013 Ivan Yarygin Memorial Grand Prix (Russia)… 2012 Moscow Lights champion (Russia)… 2012 Ramzan Kadirov International champion (Russia)… 2012 Dmitry Korkin International champion (Russia)… 2012 Olympia Tournament champion (Greece)… 2012 Yasar Dogu International champion (Turkey)… Third in 2012 Ivan Yarygin Memorial Grand Prix (Russia)… 2011 Dmitry Korkin International champion (Russia)… Eighth in 2011 FILA Golden Grand Prix Finals… Seventh in 2011 World Cup… Born: November 17, 1989… Age: 24
65 kg/143 lbs. men’s freestyle
Jordan Oliver, Stillwater, Okla. (Titan Mercury WC)
Second in 2013 World Team Trials… Second in 2013 U.S. Open… Sixth in 2014 U.S. Open… Wildcard selection for Olympic Trials… Third in 2009 Junior World Championships… Third in 2010 FILA Junior World Team Trials… 2009 FILA Junior World Team Trials champion… 2009 University Nationals champion… 2009 FILA Junior Nationals champion… 2007 Junior Nationals champion… 2011 and 2013 NCAA champion for Oklahoma State… 2012 NCAA runner-up… Three-time Pennsylvania high school champion… College: Oklahoma State… High School: Easton, Pa…. Born: May 8, 1990… Age: 23
Boris Novachkov, Bulgaria
Second in 2014 European Championships… Second in 2014 Dan Kolov International (Bulgaria)… Fifth in 2014 Yasar Dogu International (Turkey)… Fourth in 2014 Dave Schultz Memorial International (USA)… Third in 2013 New York AC International (USA)… Third in 2013 Dave Schultz Memorial International (USA)… 2009 U.S. FILA Junior Nationals champion… 2007 U.S. Junior Nationals champion in Greco-Roman and second in freestyle… Third in 2006 U.S. Junior Nationals in both Greco-Roman and freestyle…2005 U.S. Junior Nationals champion in Greco-Roman and freestyle… 2011 NCAA runner-up for Cal Poly… Third in 2012 NCAA Championships… Seventh in 2010 NCAA Championships… 2006 and 2007 California state high school champion for Fremont High School… Born: November 29, 1989… Age: 24
65 kg/143 lbs. men’s freestyle
Logan Stieber, Monroeville, Ohio (New York AC/Ohio RTC)
Third in 2014 U.S. Open… Third in 2013 World Team Trials… Fourth in 2013 U.S. Open… 2012 Ziolkowski International champion (Poland)… Second in 2013 U.S. Olympic Team Trials… Second in 2011 Junior World Championships… 2011 Northeast Regional champion… Third at 2009 U.S. Open… Fourth at 2009 and 2011 World Team Trials… Sixth in 2010 U.S. Open… Second at 2009 FILA Junior World Team Trials… 2008 FILA Junior Nationals champion… 2008 Junior Nationals champion in both styles… 2008 FILA Junior Nationals champion… 2007 Cadet Nationals champion… 2007 FILA Cadet Nationals champion… Three-time NCAA champion for Ohio State (2012, 2013, 2014)… Four-time high school state champion in Ohio… 2010 Dave Schultz High School Excellence award national winner… Younger brother Hunter is an NCAA All-American for Ohio State… College: Ohio State… High School: Monroeville, Ohio… Born: January 24, 1991… Age: 23
Haislan Garcia, Canada
Seventh in 2012 Olympic Games… Fifth in 2010 World Championships… Eighth in 2013 World Championships… 2008 Olympian… 2013 Grand Prix of Germany champion… 2012 Pan American Olympic Qualification Tournament champion… 2012 Canadian Olympic Trials champion… 2009 and 2011 Canadian World Team member… 2012 Canada Cup champion… 2010 and 2011 Dave Schultz Memorial champion (USA)… Second in 2012 Ziolkowski International (Poland)… Second in 2008 and 2009 Pan American Championships… Third in 2010 and 2011 Pan American Championships… Third in 2013 Dave Schultz Memorial International (USA)… Second in 2010 Tbilisi Tournament (Georgia)… Born: March 4, 1983… Age: 31
65 kg/143 lbs. men’s freestyle
Brent Metcalf, Iowa City, Iowa (New York AC/Hawkeye WC)
2014 U.S. Open champion… Member of 2010 and 2013 U.S. World Team… Second in 2012 U.S. Olympic Team Trials... Second in 2013 World Cup... 2012 Stepan Sargsyan International champion (Armenia)… Second in 2013 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix (Russia)… 2011 Olympic Test Event champion (England)… Second in 2012 Pan American Olympic Qualifier, qualifying USA for Olympics… 2011 Takhti Cup runner-up (Iran)… Second in 2011 U.S. World Team Trials… Third in 2011 and 2013 U.S. Open… Second in 2009 U.S. Open… Fifth in 2008 U.S. Open… Third in 2010 FILA Golden Grand Prix Finals (Azerbaijan)… Third in 2009 Pan American Championships… 2008 and 2010 NCAA champion for the Univ. of Iowa… 2009 NCAA runner-up… 2008 Dan Hodge Trophy winner as nation’s top college wrestler… 2006 Clansman International champion… Competed in 2006 FILA Junior World Championships… 2006 FILA Junior World Team Trials champion… Four-time Michigan state champion… Six-time Junior Nationals champion, tying national record with Sean Hage of Georgia… College: Univ of Iowa, Virginia Tech… High School: Davison, Mich…. Born: July 14, 1986… Age: 27
Magomed Kurbanaliev, Russia
Third in 2013 World Championships… 2013 World University Games champion… 2014 European champion… 2014 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix champion (Russia)… 2012 Junior World Champion…. 2013 Ali Aliev Tournament champion (Russia)… 2013 Dave Schultz Memorial International champion (USA)… Fifth in 2013 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix (Russia)… 2011 World Cup champion… Second in 2011 Ramzan Kadyrov Cup (Russia)… Second in 2010 Dave Schultz Memorial International (USA)… Born August 6, 1992… Age: 21
74 kg/163 lbs. men’s freestyle
David Taylor, State College, Pa. (Nittany Lion WC)
Second in 2013 and 2014 U.S. Open… Third in 2013 World University Games… Third in 2013 U.S. World Team Trials… 2010 and 2013 University Nationals champion…Wildcard selection for 2012 Olympic Trials… Second in 2008 and 2010 FILA Junior World Team Trials… Third in 2010 FILA Junior Nationals… 2010 University Nationals champion… Eighth in 2007 FILA Junior World Championships… 2007 Junior Nationals champion in both styles… 2006 Cadet Nationals champion in both styles… 2005 Cadet Nationals champion in freestyle and second in Greco-Roman… 2005 FILA Cadet Nationals champion in both styles… 2012 and 2014 NCAA Champion for Penn State… 2012 and 2014 Dan Hodge Trophy winner as nation’s top college wrestler… Second in 2011 and 2013 NCAA Championships… Four-time Ohio state high school champion… College: Penn State… High School: St. Paris, Ohio (St. Paris Graham)… Born: December 5, 1990… Age: 23
Yabrail Hasanov, Azerbaijan
Third in 2010 and 2011 World Championships… Fifth in 2012 Olympics… Seventh in 2009 World Championships… Eighth in 2013 World Championships… Second in 2013 World University Games… Second in 2014 European Championships… Second in 2013 World Cup… 2011 European champion… Third in 2014 Dan Kolov International (Bulgaria)… Third in 2013 FILA Golden Grand Prix Finals (Azerbaijan)…Second in 2013 Intercontinental Cup (Russia)… Third in 2012 Yasar Dogu International (Turkey)… Third in 2011 Olympic Test Event (England)… 2011 FILA Golden Grand Prix Finals champion (Azerbaijan)… Second in 2009 European Championships… Second in 2008 Junior World Championships… Third in 2007 Junior World Championships… Third in 2006 European Junior Championships… Third in 2005 European Cadet Championships… Born: February 24, 1990… Age: 24
74 kg/163 lbs. men’s freestyle
Jordan Burroughs, Lincoln, Neb. (Sunkist Kids)
2012 Olympic champion… 2011 and 2013 World champion… 2011 Pan American Games champion… 2012 and 2013 World Cup champion... 2011, 2013 and 2014 U.S. Open champion... Third in 2014 Yasar Dogu International (Turkey)… 2013 Stepan Sargsyan International champion (Ukraine)… 2013 Medved International champion (Belarus)… 2011 Ukrainian Memorial International champion… 2012 Dave Schultz Memorial champion… 2012 Cerro Pelado International champion (Cuba)… Tenth in 2008 Junior World Championships… Second in 2007 University Nationals… 2009 and 2011 NCAA champion for Nebraska… Third in 2008 NCAA Championships… 2006 New Jersey state high school champion for Winslow Twp High in New Jersey… His 69-match win streak, broken in 2014, is the longest in USA Wrestling history… His current Senior record is 81-1… Born: July 8, 1988… Age: 25…
Atsamaz Sanakoev, Russia
Second in 2014 World Cup… Third in 2012 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix (Russia)… 10th in 2013 FILA Golden Grand Prix Finals (Azerbaijan)… 2013 Moscow Lights champion (Russia)… Second in 2013 Stepan Sargsyan International (Armenia)… 2013 Dave Schultz Memorial International champion (USA)… Third in 2012 FILA Golden Grand Prix Finals (Azerbaijan)… 2012 European Junior champion… Sixth in 2011 Junior World Cup…
86 kg/189 lbs. men’s freestyle
Ed Ruth, Harrisburg, Pa. (Nittany Lion WC)
Third in 2013 and 2014 U.S. Open… Competed in 2013 World University Games… 2013 University Nationals champion… Wildcard selection for Olympic Trials… Fourth in 2010 FILA Junior Nationals… Three-time NCAA champion for Penn State (2012, 2013, 2014)… Third in 2011 NCAA Championships… First Penn State wrestler to ever win three NCAA titles… Four-time Big Ten champion… Competed at Blair Academy… Fourth and fifth in Pennsylvania state high school championships for Susquehanna Township High School in Pennsylvania… Born: October 21, 1990… Age: 23
Taymuraz Friev, Spain
Fifth in 2013 World Championships… 2014 Grand Prix of Paris champion (France)… 2013 Grand Prix of Spain champion… Eighth in 2013 Mediterranean Games… Fifth in 2010 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix (Russia), competing for Russia… Third in 2005 European Junior Championships, competing for Russia… Born: September 15, 1986… Age: 27
97 kg/213 lbs. men’s freestyle
Kyle Snyder, Woodbine, Md. (Sunkist Kids)
2013 Junior World champion… 2013 and 2014 FILA Junior Nationals champion… 2013 FILA Junior World Team Trials champion… 2014 Cerro Pelado Junior champion (Cuba)… Third in 2013 Henri Deglane Challenge (France)… Three-time Prep School National champion for Good Council High School in Maryland… 2012 Junior National Greco-Roman champion and third in freestyle… 2011 Cadet National champion in both freestyle and Greco-Roman… 2013 ASICS High School Wrestler of the Year… 2013-14 U.S. Olympic Training Center resident athlete during his senior year in high school… Born: November 20, 1995… Age: 18
Khadjimurat Gatsalov, Russia
2004 Olympic champion… Five-time World champion (2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2013)… Second in 2010 World Championships… 2001 Junior World champion… Second in 2013 Ali Aliev Tournament (Russia)… Fifth in 2013 Ivan Yarygin Grand Prix (Russia)… Competed in 2011 World Championships… Third in 2011 Ali Aliev Tournament (Russia)… Third in 2005 and 2008 European Championships… 2007 World Military Champion… 2002, 2003, 2007 World Cup champion… 2003, 2004 and 2006 European champion… Second in 2001 World Military Championships… Second in 2001 Dave Schultz Memorial International (USA)… Sixth in 2001 World Cup… Born: December 11, 1982… Age: 30
