It can be hard for Minnesotans to keep up with the state’s COVID-19 regulations, which have shifted and changed throughout the pandemic. Multiply that by four or five, and you’ll get a taste of what Pat Smith is trying to decipher.
The former Gopher from Chaska is resuming his globe-hopping ways, heading to Europe as he pursues an Olympic berth in Greco-Roman wrestling. That requires some extra preparation in the era of coronavirus. In between workouts, Smith has been educating himself on testing mandates in Croatia, mask rules in Sweden and what’s open and closed in France.
“I have to know entrance requirements for each country, and the protocols in connecting airports,” Smith said. “It’s definitely interesting. From what I can tell, I have to make sure I get a COVID test right before each one.”
The next place Smith visits will be Nice, France, for this weekend’s Henri Deglane Grand Prix. Smith is among 33 U.S. athletes participating in the tournament, which includes freestyle, Greco-Roman and women’s wrestling. The Greco-Roman bracket is Sunday, with Smith competing at 77 kilograms (169.8 pounds). Continue reading at startribune.com →