Post by MINX on Oct 6, 2006 14:36:06 GMT -5
This was sent to me by Will and Marge Millman. It was submitted to PLUSA and Southern Muscle... Congrats again to the lifters!!
~MINX
APF/AAPF SUMMER HEAT II Rock Hill, SC 9/9/06
It was a beautiful, sunny, almost fall-like day in the Piedmont of South Carolina, when the marauding horde of powerlifters invaded from the North. Leading the pack was big Chris Clark from Granite City Barbell and Jonathan Couick with “Team Torture”. Rounding out their ranks were warriors from Clayton Fitness and Executioners Gym of NC. South Carolina had lifters from SC Barbell. G-7 and Primal Iron.
We had 35 lifters with 11 in Bench Only. Six SC lifters set new State records and one American record in Bench Only and nine North Carolina lifters set State records and one American record in Bench Only and four new APF Elite lifters.
The venue at the Holiday Inn in Rock Hill was just great and the people there couldn’t have been nicer or more accommodating. Coach J. Robinson of Special Olympics South Carolina brought along 2 of his best lifters and they really made the meet “Special”.
Joe Deverville from SCIFIT of GA was our head referee. Todd Shook from Columbia, SC was on the side while I and two other refs alternated in the third seat. Jason was on the platform with a team of spotters and loaders from Primal Iron in Rock Hill. Jeff and Jessie cranked up the music as the “Hooter’s Girls”, under Darrell’s watchful eye, announced the opening of Summer Heat II.
Our favorite Guest Lifter, 10 yr. Old “Moose” Hubbs opened with a good 100 lb squat, moved up to 125 for his 2nd and a big 140 lbs for his final squat, in perfect form. He benchpressed 70 lbs and had a big, big, 170 lb DL, setting 2 new PR’s, to the roar of the crowd.
Barbara Roby, who has competed in 6 of our meets lifted in WM181. She also opened with 100 lbs and easily moved up to 135 with no problem. She benched up to 120 lbs and pulled 180 for a perfect 9 x 9 day and a trophy in her category. Barbara is the current SC State record holder in WM165 and WM181. Having taken a long time off from training she is now on the road back.
Sonja Couick from Monroe, NC was the first lifter from “Team Torture”. She currently holds 4 NC State records in WO114. This is her first time lifting with us in SC. A little unsteady with her 1st attempt. She came back with squats of 165 and then 175 lbs. Her extreme arch benchpress kept the referees looking low but no problem. She had 3 nice benches up to 125 lbs. She pulled 180 lbs on her 2nd DL but was stopped after a great attempt @ 200 lbs. She will get it next time. Sonja earned a well deserved trophy in WO 114.
Brian Pittman, the first of our Special Olympians from here in Rock Hill lifted in MO220. was next. He opened with squats of 185, then 215 and up to 235 lbs, breaking his own PR by 30 lbs. He’s strong in the benchpress and showed us
with a 295 lb 2nd attempt and barely missing 315 on his 3rd try. He deadlifted 275 and with a big smile, looked at each ref for confirmation ..good lift.. 3 white lights!! He totaled 805 for a good day of lifting.
Up next was George Camacho, our 74 yr. young MM181 Champion. He has lifted in most of our meets. The father of 10 children and 32 grand and great grandchildren, his family alone could fill the Holiday Inn. We’re always glad to see him on the platform. Having taken a break from Powerlifting training to train with his son in bodybuilding, he was a little rusty but still looked really good. His opening squat attempt with 175 was just a warm-up, easy. A 2nd attempt with 225 was also good. His 3rd with 260 lbs was enough to set a new SC State record and PR for George. He benched 175 and then 225 but couldn’t quite get a 245 lb attempt for a new record. He had 3 good DL’s up to 350 lbs to total 835 lbs and earn a 1st place trophy in MM181 (70-74).
Our next lifter was Jason Elkins, another Special Olympian on today’s card. Jason lifts in MO242 and his big smile electrified the crowd. He had 3 great squats of 265, 305, and 335 lbs smashing his PR of 285 by 50 lbs. He then easily benched 215, 235 and 250 lbs for another perfect round and another new PR. Three big deadlifts up to again a new PR at 385 lbs ending a 9x9 perfect day of lifting for Jason and 2nd place in MO242. We all want to see more of him at our meets, and I’m sure we will.
Sharon Zingg, also from “Team Torture” in NC, was up next. This was her 1st full power meet and she attacked it like a pro. Lifting in WO148. she opened with a 275 lb squat, struggled with it but made it!. Up to 290 on her 2nd attempt, good lift. A 3rd attempt with 315 was a little too much and needed the help of the spotters. A 1st attempt on the bench of 145 was good. Her 2nd attempt with 165 lbs was no good but she came back to make it on her 3rd. She worked hard at her deadlifts but made them all..225, 240 and then 260 lbs…awesome! She totaled 715 lbs and was 2nd place in her division. Welcome to Powerlifting.
And here comes Hannah Johnson, from Granite City Barbell, looking a lot more muscular than the last time we saw her @ Sorinex. She weighed in at exactly 148 and was ready to lift. Blasting her way through 3 squats of 300, 325 and 350 lbs she looked strong and solid. Benching 205, 230 and then a big 245, she jumped up off the bench, to the roar of the crowd. They love “The Minx”. Her 1st DL attempt was red-lited, but she came back with 330 on her 2nd and a big 365 lbs for her final lift. Totaling 960 lbs she now has all new PR’s, all new NC State records, 1st place in WO148, ”Best Female Lifter” of the meet and a new APF “Elite” lifter. WOW!! Training with Ox Mason and sponsored by Torch Nutrition, we may have a champion in the making.
The next lifter was “Old Tom” Walters. Oldish in years only, this man is a Master Olympic and Pan Am 2004 weightlifting champion, a member of the Pan Am Hall of Fame and SC State Powerlifting record holder in MM181 and 198 (60-69). He opened with a nice deep 300 lb squat. Up to 340 and then good with 365 lbs, the crowd acknowledged his performance with their loud applause. Still recovering from shoulder surgery he cautiously benchpressed 135, 155, and 165 lbs. Three solid deadlifts of 300, 340 and 350 lbs made it a perfect 9x9 day for “Old Tom”. He totaled 880 lbs, set the SC State records in MM181 (65-69) and earned the 1st place trophy for his collection.
Robert Bagley from Monroe NC, lifting in Police and Fire @ 181 was up next. He has been lifting for only 3 years with “Team Torture”. His opening squat of 405 was smooth and easy. Moving up to 440 and then 475 lbs he looked real confident. He slowly pushed up 305 lbs for his 1st bench attempt: again with 325 for his 2nd; but 350 needed the spotters, a little too much today. Deadlifting first 405 and then 455, and up to 475 lbs for his final lift…holding on and looking satisfied with his performance in this his 1st Powerlifting meet. He totaled 1275 lbs and earned a 1st place trophy.
APF Master National lifter and WPC qualifier Michael Shealy was our next lifter. He has lifted in 4 of our meets and Darrell always has fun with this serious competitor. He easily made his opening squat attempt of 425 lbs, up to 475 and then another good lift at 500 lbs. He was looking good but it was a day that his benchpress failed him. He just couldn’t get on track, three attempts with 350 lbs just would not go. He disappointedly bowed out of the meet. Michael is one of our biggest supporters and we know that “he’ll be back”.
Richard Stafford, again from “Team Torture”, was lifting for the first time with us in SC. He opened with an easy 475 lb squat; moved up to 505 and then to a new PR of 525 lbs!! Good job, Rick! Two bench attempts of 275 and 300 lbs were both slow, steady, and good. His 3rd try with 315 was sooo close, but no good. He pulled 405 and 455 but got stuck with 475 lbs. Totaling 1280 lbs he earned 1st place in MO181.
A short break gave us the opportunity to thank all of our sponsors who were solicited by Eric, Killer and Burton. ( Thanks to you too.) All of our proceeds are for the benefit of Special Olympics SC,
The 2nd flite started with Doug Scarborough from G-7 in Anderson, SC. He squatted 480, 510 and 525 lbs for a new PR. He had 2 good benches of 320 and 335 lbs, but a shot at 345 lbs needed the spotters. Really hard pulls of 480 and 500 got white lites, but a 3rd attempt with 530 was stuck to the platform. He totaled 1360 lbs for a 1st place in MM181 (40-44) and established the SC State records in his division.
Will Kuenzel, all the way from Charleston, SC was lifting in his 1st powerlifting competition. His 1st squat attempt with 495 lbs was good. The next 2 attempts of 585 and 610 lbs were too much of a jump up and he was not able to handle them. We’re glad that Jason was behind him to prevent an injury. He had 3, what appeared to be, easy benchpresses up to a solid 400 lbs. He deadlifted 525 to total 1420 lbs and 3rd place in a tough MO220 division. A special thanks to his wife Amy for her help with this writeup.
Up next was “Big” Will Hancock from Charlotte, NC and the Executioner Gym. Opening with his 1st attempt of 525 lbs, he had a perfect squat for 3 white lites. Next, pushing up 575 and then 600 lbs he was looking good! Struggling with getting his first two bench attempts to go, he finally nailed his 3rd attempt with 475. His 3 deadlifts were all strong and solid up to a big 605 lbs. Totaling 1680 lbs earned him a 1st place trophy in MO275.
Michael Steck, one of our biggest supporters from SC Barbell in Columbia, was our next lifter. With Karl Tillman in his corner he was ready to lift! He is the APF SC State record holder in MM181 (45-49) and has qualified for the 2006 WPC Worlds. He was fantastic! Two screaming, solid squats up to a new record high of 530 lbs was just the beginning. Benchpresses of 315 and then 335 lbs was also a new record. Three solid deadlifts of 405, 430 and 450 lbs were awesome!! He totaled 1315 lbs for all new state records and 1st place in his division. Many thanks for his and Amanda’s (as our new expeditor) help with the meet.
Our next lifter was Jon Landon also from SC Barbell. He is a strong lifter with a few SC State records to his credit. He opened with a perfect 525 lb squat, moved up to 560 for a tough but good 2nd attempt, a new PR and state record by 60 lbs! His last attempt with 600 was a little too much…good job, spotters. Opening with a perfect 315 lb bench he moved up to 350 for his 2nd, also good! A 3rd attempt with 375 lbs just would not go even after a great attempt….take it! Today was Jon’s day to deadlift, first 500, (breaking his old state record), then 530, and last, a big, big pull of 550 lbs, beating his own previous record by 65 lbs. Totaling 1460 lbs in MM220 (40-44) he earned a 1st place trophy and all new state records.
Wade Boothe came a long way from Clayton Fitness in NC to lift big! He had three solid, great squats of 585, 625 and 640 lbs. His 1st bench attempt was smooth and good. His 2nd attempt with 385 looked good to us and got 3 white lites, but he didn’t look happy with it. He was not able to control his 3rd attempt with 405, and he needed the help of the spotters…maybe he felt something on his 2nd attempt that we didn’t see. His 1st attempt at the DL had the refs a bit confused. It appeared that he thought he was finished, but he was not fully upright….we gave him three red lites. For his 2nd attempt he moved up to 600 lbs, made it, strong and solid…held it and looked at each of us as we gave him 3 white lites for a perfect lift. Up again to a big 630 lbs for another good lift. This 189 lb man can deadlift! He totaled 1655 lbs for 1st place in MO198.
Another Granite City lifter was Brett Rapp, also lifting in MO198. He is the current NC State record holder at 181. He opened with a 720 lb 1st attempt at the squat. Looking good, he moved up to a big 780 lbs which he made, and made it look easy. Recovering from an injury he benchpressed just 135 lbs to stay in the meet. He had 2 big deadlifts up to 660 lbs, but just could not lockout 700 lbs. In spite of the light benchpress he still totaled a respectable 1575 lbs and 2nd place in MO198. Thanks for your help in the ref chair, and for making the long trip down.
Grady Polk with “Team Torture” was up next. Going head to head against his team-mate Jonathan Couick in MO220 we expected a battle. Feeling the pressure, Grady was a bit off with his squat, but he finally nailed a big one of 755 lbs on his 3rd attempt. He benched an easy 450 lbs and then up to 500, again good! Moving up to 520 proved to be a little too much. His deadlift was awesome!…600, 645 and then a big, big 665 lbs. He totaled 1920 lbs, earned a 1st place trophy in his class and he became a new “APF Elite Lifter”. Congratulations!
Jonathan Couick, the “Team Torture” go-to-guy, was up next. He and the team really helped make this meet run smoothly. He is a strong lifter and is currently the NC Record holder in MO220. Opening with a 735 lb squat attempt he makes it, good and strong. Up to 755 for his 2nd, but…oops, no good. He needs the help of the spotters. But that miss didn’t slow him down one bit…again at 755 for his 3rd attempt…wow! Fast and solid for 3 white lites. Great lift! Tied with Grady in the squat, he moved on to the benchpress where he opened with a big 500 lbs and made it look easy. His 2nd attempt with 520 kept getting stuck, but he didn’t quit and made it! Whew!! Good lift. His last attempt with 535 was so close that when the crowd saw the 3 red lites they sighed in disappointment and then broke into applause showing their recognition of his great effort. Jonathan was 20 lbs ahead in his sub-total going into the deadlift. Pulling 575 lbs for his 1st attempt, up to 605 for his 2nd and a “picture perfect” DL, he finished with a good 640 lb lift on his 3rd. Totaling 1915 lbs for a super day of lifting and just 5 lbs behind Grady. He earned a 2nd place trophy and was also a new “APF Elite Lifter”. Thanks for all your help and a great day of lifting.
Here comes “Wild Thing” Matt Hawkins looking alot bigger than his 240.5 lbs. He is a big lifter from the Executioner Gym in NC. Opening with 835 for his 1st squat attempt, he gets red-lited for depth. Not to be deterred, he moves up to 905 for his 2nd but this time he is not quite in his groove and needs the spotters to steady him. Again with 905 lbs for his 3rd. BAM! Awesome squat! Big lift! Solid as a rock. He easily benched 505 lbs and deadlifted 605 and 660 lbs which looked like he could just walk around with it. He totaled a big 2070 lbs to win 1st place in MO242 and became a new 242 lb “APF Elite Lifter”.
And now the big man….343 lb Chris Clark from Granite City Barbell. He is the current SHW APF Men’s submaster champion. Getting on the platform with what seemed to be at least half of the big guys here as spotters, Chris got under his 1st squat attempt of 935 lbs. As he shoulders that tremendous weight he just kind of slowly leans too far back into the arms of the spotters..good job guys! On his 2nd attempt he successfully took it down but just couldn’t push it up …again, good job spotters….no problem. He wasn’t going to let that happen again. On his 3rd attempt he solidly blasted up that 935 like he was really mad at it!! Good lift. WOW! The crowd loves this guy. His 3 solid benchpresses of 600, 650 and 675 lbs had the audience on their feet with admiration and applause. He opened his deadlifting with a giant 675 lb attempt and made it, strong and solid, no question. Passing on his 2nd attempt, he called for a monster 795 lbs for his 3rd. Pulling it up but not quite able to lock it out..he’s done for the day. And what a day it was. A total of 2285 lbs for this already “Elite Lifter” with a 1st place trophy and the biggest squat, biggest bench (for a powerlifter), and the biggest deadlift of the meet as well as “Best Male Lifter”, Thanks Chris for your help and an exciting Powerlifting exhibition.
As we cleared the platform to get ready for the bench, I took a little time to recognize the great team that helped us put on this meet.
Even though we wove the bench only lifters in with the powerlifters benchpressing, I’ll list them separately…get ready for this!!
Before the lifters hit the platform we were treated to a bench exhibition by 6 year old Hagan “Big Boy” Smith. Getting good advice and the hand-off from his dad Michael, he easily pushed up 50 lbs for his 1st attempt and finished with a body weight bench of 80 lbs. We’re looking forward to seeing him in the future
Our first lifter was Dillon Blackmon from Rock Hill, SC, competing in his first meet. At 221 lbs, this 15 year old is a “big kid”. He opened with a raw benchpress of 250 lbs, good lift! Putting on his shirt for his 2nd attempt he makes 330 lbs look easy. A shot at 350 was a little too much, but his 330 lb lift was enough for a 1st place trophy, a new SC State record and a new American Record….Congratulations!
Up next was Master Allah from Charlotte, NC. At 164 lbs he is a good lifter and has won APF and Iron Boy trophies in the past. He makes a good solid 345 lbs but can’t quite get 375. He earned 2nd place in MO165.
Chad Tucker, also in MO165, our next bencher trains with “Team Torture” in Monroe NC. He also has won APF and Iron Boy trophies for his lifting. He opened with a big 415 lbs, and made it! Up to 425 for another super lift. A try at 435 was so close, but no good. He won 1st place in his division and the crowds approval.
Killer Williams, one of our meet coordinators from here in Rock Hill, got the crowds attention as he gets” psyched-up” for his 1st attempt. Whoo, Whoo!!..up it goes, 420 lbs, good lift! Two attempts with 440 just would not go, but he still earned a 1st place trophy in MM242 (45-49).
Up next was “Elite Lifter” Greg Crook, another “Team Torture” lifter from Monroe, NC. He is the 2006 APF Senior National Champion in MO181 and the NC State Powerlifting record holder in MO198. Today it was bench only for Greg. He opened with a strong 475 lbs. Good lift! Next at 505 lbs, also good, and a new PR for him. His last attempt with 515 was a hard lift, but no good. He got a 1st place trophy in MO 198.
John Robinson, the Special Olympic coach from Rock Hill, was our next lifter. This was his 1st competition and he lifted in MO SHW. But, for as much success as he had with the special Olympians, he just couldn’t get himself on track today. Three great attempts with 545 lbs just would not go. Smiling to thank the crowd for their applause acknowledging his great work with Special Olympics, he was just happy to be here today, and we were happy to have him!
And now, “Big Daddy” Eric Hubbs, one of our biggest supporters and meet coordinators in Rock Hill, on the bench. He is the 2006 APF National Bench Champion and the current SC State record holder of 551 lbs in MM275 (40-49). Opening with a big 550 lbs, he just could not get in to his groove. Two more attempts also proved futile. He was really pissed, but we know that “he’ll be back”. He’s a great bencher.
The “Head Executioner”, Grant Austin from Charlotte, NC was our next lifter. He has lifted with us before and proved to be a good lifter. At 240.5 lbs in MO242 he opened with his first attempt of 575 lbs. Not looking real solid, he appeared to have trouble with his shirt…no lift. His 2nd attempt with 575 again was tough, but good! For his 3rd attempt he called for 605 lbs, which he struggled with but does not give up…good lift! We look forward to seeing him again.
A.J. Coleman from Charlotte, NC was up next. He has lifted with us before and we know that this “big guy” can bench. A first attempt with 625 lbs was solid and steady for a good lift. Up to 675 for his 2nd, up it goes, a little slower this time, but no hesitation….3 white lites…good! A shot @ 700 lbs proved to be too much and got stuck half way up…good job spotters! A.J. earned a 1st place trophy in MO308.
Next up from Pulaski VA. was Michael Smith. Nobody gets more “pumping up” than Michael, courtesy of his wife, who we are sure just loves to smack this big guy around. He came to break his 635 lb bench record, but could not do it today. Three hard fought super efforts would not get 650 to go. Thanks for making the long trip. We know that you’ll get it next time.
At about this time we started to hear rumblings about a really big bench.
Curtis Rabon, from Salisbury, NC lifting in MO/MM 275 looked like he was ready to lift! Blowing up his opener of 650 lbs he looked very strong and solid. Moving up to 680, again good…. Wow, it looks like he’s done this before. His call for a 705 lb attempt had the crowd buzzing. BAM! Up and good….3 white lites. Not bad for this 42 year old lifter. That may be a new NC Bench record. Good job!
Who is that young man who handed off to Curtis? It’s 19 year old 291.5 lb Daniel Everhart lifting in J/T 308. Passing on his 1st he opened with a 700 lb attempt on his 2nd. Taking the hand- off, this big guy just took a deep breath and pressed it with no hesitation. Good lift, WOW! 700 lbs at 19 years old? But wait, it’s not over, he comes back for his last attempt with 750 lbs…that’s 750 lbs! The crowd was on its feet and moved in closer for a better look. He slams it up strong and solid..good lift!! We had just witnessed a new NC State record , a new APF American record and Daniel is the “Best Bench Presser” of the meet. We all knew that we were looking at a future world champion. Thanks Daniel for an exciting end to a great meet.
Special thanks to all of those who helped Marge and I with this meet.
Leon Mayes and son Andrew (photographers) deserve special mention for their new digital camera and printing system which allowed them to print out the lifter’s pictures on the spot. Everyone loved it. Thanks to Scott for helping set up and break down our platform. Jason Alderman of Fortress Martial Arts and the guys from Primal Iron kept the meet going smoothly and injury free. Darryl, the Hooters girls, the scoring table crew led by Lauren and Chris Kerley (helped by Minna, Sarah, and Jon Landon’s lovely wife) and of course the Pernick ‘s, all warrant our thanks. Thanks to Shana Smith who helped put the #’s on the bench so we could identify the lifters in photos, and to the crew from the Holiday Inn!! We’ll be back.
Will Millman
APF/AAPF SC State Chairman
~MINX
APF/AAPF SUMMER HEAT II Rock Hill, SC 9/9/06
It was a beautiful, sunny, almost fall-like day in the Piedmont of South Carolina, when the marauding horde of powerlifters invaded from the North. Leading the pack was big Chris Clark from Granite City Barbell and Jonathan Couick with “Team Torture”. Rounding out their ranks were warriors from Clayton Fitness and Executioners Gym of NC. South Carolina had lifters from SC Barbell. G-7 and Primal Iron.
We had 35 lifters with 11 in Bench Only. Six SC lifters set new State records and one American record in Bench Only and nine North Carolina lifters set State records and one American record in Bench Only and four new APF Elite lifters.
The venue at the Holiday Inn in Rock Hill was just great and the people there couldn’t have been nicer or more accommodating. Coach J. Robinson of Special Olympics South Carolina brought along 2 of his best lifters and they really made the meet “Special”.
Joe Deverville from SCIFIT of GA was our head referee. Todd Shook from Columbia, SC was on the side while I and two other refs alternated in the third seat. Jason was on the platform with a team of spotters and loaders from Primal Iron in Rock Hill. Jeff and Jessie cranked up the music as the “Hooter’s Girls”, under Darrell’s watchful eye, announced the opening of Summer Heat II.
Our favorite Guest Lifter, 10 yr. Old “Moose” Hubbs opened with a good 100 lb squat, moved up to 125 for his 2nd and a big 140 lbs for his final squat, in perfect form. He benchpressed 70 lbs and had a big, big, 170 lb DL, setting 2 new PR’s, to the roar of the crowd.
Barbara Roby, who has competed in 6 of our meets lifted in WM181. She also opened with 100 lbs and easily moved up to 135 with no problem. She benched up to 120 lbs and pulled 180 for a perfect 9 x 9 day and a trophy in her category. Barbara is the current SC State record holder in WM165 and WM181. Having taken a long time off from training she is now on the road back.
Sonja Couick from Monroe, NC was the first lifter from “Team Torture”. She currently holds 4 NC State records in WO114. This is her first time lifting with us in SC. A little unsteady with her 1st attempt. She came back with squats of 165 and then 175 lbs. Her extreme arch benchpress kept the referees looking low but no problem. She had 3 nice benches up to 125 lbs. She pulled 180 lbs on her 2nd DL but was stopped after a great attempt @ 200 lbs. She will get it next time. Sonja earned a well deserved trophy in WO 114.
Brian Pittman, the first of our Special Olympians from here in Rock Hill lifted in MO220. was next. He opened with squats of 185, then 215 and up to 235 lbs, breaking his own PR by 30 lbs. He’s strong in the benchpress and showed us
with a 295 lb 2nd attempt and barely missing 315 on his 3rd try. He deadlifted 275 and with a big smile, looked at each ref for confirmation ..good lift.. 3 white lights!! He totaled 805 for a good day of lifting.
Up next was George Camacho, our 74 yr. young MM181 Champion. He has lifted in most of our meets. The father of 10 children and 32 grand and great grandchildren, his family alone could fill the Holiday Inn. We’re always glad to see him on the platform. Having taken a break from Powerlifting training to train with his son in bodybuilding, he was a little rusty but still looked really good. His opening squat attempt with 175 was just a warm-up, easy. A 2nd attempt with 225 was also good. His 3rd with 260 lbs was enough to set a new SC State record and PR for George. He benched 175 and then 225 but couldn’t quite get a 245 lb attempt for a new record. He had 3 good DL’s up to 350 lbs to total 835 lbs and earn a 1st place trophy in MM181 (70-74).
Our next lifter was Jason Elkins, another Special Olympian on today’s card. Jason lifts in MO242 and his big smile electrified the crowd. He had 3 great squats of 265, 305, and 335 lbs smashing his PR of 285 by 50 lbs. He then easily benched 215, 235 and 250 lbs for another perfect round and another new PR. Three big deadlifts up to again a new PR at 385 lbs ending a 9x9 perfect day of lifting for Jason and 2nd place in MO242. We all want to see more of him at our meets, and I’m sure we will.
Sharon Zingg, also from “Team Torture” in NC, was up next. This was her 1st full power meet and she attacked it like a pro. Lifting in WO148. she opened with a 275 lb squat, struggled with it but made it!. Up to 290 on her 2nd attempt, good lift. A 3rd attempt with 315 was a little too much and needed the help of the spotters. A 1st attempt on the bench of 145 was good. Her 2nd attempt with 165 lbs was no good but she came back to make it on her 3rd. She worked hard at her deadlifts but made them all..225, 240 and then 260 lbs…awesome! She totaled 715 lbs and was 2nd place in her division. Welcome to Powerlifting.
And here comes Hannah Johnson, from Granite City Barbell, looking a lot more muscular than the last time we saw her @ Sorinex. She weighed in at exactly 148 and was ready to lift. Blasting her way through 3 squats of 300, 325 and 350 lbs she looked strong and solid. Benching 205, 230 and then a big 245, she jumped up off the bench, to the roar of the crowd. They love “The Minx”. Her 1st DL attempt was red-lited, but she came back with 330 on her 2nd and a big 365 lbs for her final lift. Totaling 960 lbs she now has all new PR’s, all new NC State records, 1st place in WO148, ”Best Female Lifter” of the meet and a new APF “Elite” lifter. WOW!! Training with Ox Mason and sponsored by Torch Nutrition, we may have a champion in the making.
The next lifter was “Old Tom” Walters. Oldish in years only, this man is a Master Olympic and Pan Am 2004 weightlifting champion, a member of the Pan Am Hall of Fame and SC State Powerlifting record holder in MM181 and 198 (60-69). He opened with a nice deep 300 lb squat. Up to 340 and then good with 365 lbs, the crowd acknowledged his performance with their loud applause. Still recovering from shoulder surgery he cautiously benchpressed 135, 155, and 165 lbs. Three solid deadlifts of 300, 340 and 350 lbs made it a perfect 9x9 day for “Old Tom”. He totaled 880 lbs, set the SC State records in MM181 (65-69) and earned the 1st place trophy for his collection.
Robert Bagley from Monroe NC, lifting in Police and Fire @ 181 was up next. He has been lifting for only 3 years with “Team Torture”. His opening squat of 405 was smooth and easy. Moving up to 440 and then 475 lbs he looked real confident. He slowly pushed up 305 lbs for his 1st bench attempt: again with 325 for his 2nd; but 350 needed the spotters, a little too much today. Deadlifting first 405 and then 455, and up to 475 lbs for his final lift…holding on and looking satisfied with his performance in this his 1st Powerlifting meet. He totaled 1275 lbs and earned a 1st place trophy.
APF Master National lifter and WPC qualifier Michael Shealy was our next lifter. He has lifted in 4 of our meets and Darrell always has fun with this serious competitor. He easily made his opening squat attempt of 425 lbs, up to 475 and then another good lift at 500 lbs. He was looking good but it was a day that his benchpress failed him. He just couldn’t get on track, three attempts with 350 lbs just would not go. He disappointedly bowed out of the meet. Michael is one of our biggest supporters and we know that “he’ll be back”.
Richard Stafford, again from “Team Torture”, was lifting for the first time with us in SC. He opened with an easy 475 lb squat; moved up to 505 and then to a new PR of 525 lbs!! Good job, Rick! Two bench attempts of 275 and 300 lbs were both slow, steady, and good. His 3rd try with 315 was sooo close, but no good. He pulled 405 and 455 but got stuck with 475 lbs. Totaling 1280 lbs he earned 1st place in MO181.
A short break gave us the opportunity to thank all of our sponsors who were solicited by Eric, Killer and Burton. ( Thanks to you too.) All of our proceeds are for the benefit of Special Olympics SC,
The 2nd flite started with Doug Scarborough from G-7 in Anderson, SC. He squatted 480, 510 and 525 lbs for a new PR. He had 2 good benches of 320 and 335 lbs, but a shot at 345 lbs needed the spotters. Really hard pulls of 480 and 500 got white lites, but a 3rd attempt with 530 was stuck to the platform. He totaled 1360 lbs for a 1st place in MM181 (40-44) and established the SC State records in his division.
Will Kuenzel, all the way from Charleston, SC was lifting in his 1st powerlifting competition. His 1st squat attempt with 495 lbs was good. The next 2 attempts of 585 and 610 lbs were too much of a jump up and he was not able to handle them. We’re glad that Jason was behind him to prevent an injury. He had 3, what appeared to be, easy benchpresses up to a solid 400 lbs. He deadlifted 525 to total 1420 lbs and 3rd place in a tough MO220 division. A special thanks to his wife Amy for her help with this writeup.
Up next was “Big” Will Hancock from Charlotte, NC and the Executioner Gym. Opening with his 1st attempt of 525 lbs, he had a perfect squat for 3 white lites. Next, pushing up 575 and then 600 lbs he was looking good! Struggling with getting his first two bench attempts to go, he finally nailed his 3rd attempt with 475. His 3 deadlifts were all strong and solid up to a big 605 lbs. Totaling 1680 lbs earned him a 1st place trophy in MO275.
Michael Steck, one of our biggest supporters from SC Barbell in Columbia, was our next lifter. With Karl Tillman in his corner he was ready to lift! He is the APF SC State record holder in MM181 (45-49) and has qualified for the 2006 WPC Worlds. He was fantastic! Two screaming, solid squats up to a new record high of 530 lbs was just the beginning. Benchpresses of 315 and then 335 lbs was also a new record. Three solid deadlifts of 405, 430 and 450 lbs were awesome!! He totaled 1315 lbs for all new state records and 1st place in his division. Many thanks for his and Amanda’s (as our new expeditor) help with the meet.
Our next lifter was Jon Landon also from SC Barbell. He is a strong lifter with a few SC State records to his credit. He opened with a perfect 525 lb squat, moved up to 560 for a tough but good 2nd attempt, a new PR and state record by 60 lbs! His last attempt with 600 was a little too much…good job, spotters. Opening with a perfect 315 lb bench he moved up to 350 for his 2nd, also good! A 3rd attempt with 375 lbs just would not go even after a great attempt….take it! Today was Jon’s day to deadlift, first 500, (breaking his old state record), then 530, and last, a big, big pull of 550 lbs, beating his own previous record by 65 lbs. Totaling 1460 lbs in MM220 (40-44) he earned a 1st place trophy and all new state records.
Wade Boothe came a long way from Clayton Fitness in NC to lift big! He had three solid, great squats of 585, 625 and 640 lbs. His 1st bench attempt was smooth and good. His 2nd attempt with 385 looked good to us and got 3 white lites, but he didn’t look happy with it. He was not able to control his 3rd attempt with 405, and he needed the help of the spotters…maybe he felt something on his 2nd attempt that we didn’t see. His 1st attempt at the DL had the refs a bit confused. It appeared that he thought he was finished, but he was not fully upright….we gave him three red lites. For his 2nd attempt he moved up to 600 lbs, made it, strong and solid…held it and looked at each of us as we gave him 3 white lites for a perfect lift. Up again to a big 630 lbs for another good lift. This 189 lb man can deadlift! He totaled 1655 lbs for 1st place in MO198.
Another Granite City lifter was Brett Rapp, also lifting in MO198. He is the current NC State record holder at 181. He opened with a 720 lb 1st attempt at the squat. Looking good, he moved up to a big 780 lbs which he made, and made it look easy. Recovering from an injury he benchpressed just 135 lbs to stay in the meet. He had 2 big deadlifts up to 660 lbs, but just could not lockout 700 lbs. In spite of the light benchpress he still totaled a respectable 1575 lbs and 2nd place in MO198. Thanks for your help in the ref chair, and for making the long trip down.
Grady Polk with “Team Torture” was up next. Going head to head against his team-mate Jonathan Couick in MO220 we expected a battle. Feeling the pressure, Grady was a bit off with his squat, but he finally nailed a big one of 755 lbs on his 3rd attempt. He benched an easy 450 lbs and then up to 500, again good! Moving up to 520 proved to be a little too much. His deadlift was awesome!…600, 645 and then a big, big 665 lbs. He totaled 1920 lbs, earned a 1st place trophy in his class and he became a new “APF Elite Lifter”. Congratulations!
Jonathan Couick, the “Team Torture” go-to-guy, was up next. He and the team really helped make this meet run smoothly. He is a strong lifter and is currently the NC Record holder in MO220. Opening with a 735 lb squat attempt he makes it, good and strong. Up to 755 for his 2nd, but…oops, no good. He needs the help of the spotters. But that miss didn’t slow him down one bit…again at 755 for his 3rd attempt…wow! Fast and solid for 3 white lites. Great lift! Tied with Grady in the squat, he moved on to the benchpress where he opened with a big 500 lbs and made it look easy. His 2nd attempt with 520 kept getting stuck, but he didn’t quit and made it! Whew!! Good lift. His last attempt with 535 was so close that when the crowd saw the 3 red lites they sighed in disappointment and then broke into applause showing their recognition of his great effort. Jonathan was 20 lbs ahead in his sub-total going into the deadlift. Pulling 575 lbs for his 1st attempt, up to 605 for his 2nd and a “picture perfect” DL, he finished with a good 640 lb lift on his 3rd. Totaling 1915 lbs for a super day of lifting and just 5 lbs behind Grady. He earned a 2nd place trophy and was also a new “APF Elite Lifter”. Thanks for all your help and a great day of lifting.
Here comes “Wild Thing” Matt Hawkins looking alot bigger than his 240.5 lbs. He is a big lifter from the Executioner Gym in NC. Opening with 835 for his 1st squat attempt, he gets red-lited for depth. Not to be deterred, he moves up to 905 for his 2nd but this time he is not quite in his groove and needs the spotters to steady him. Again with 905 lbs for his 3rd. BAM! Awesome squat! Big lift! Solid as a rock. He easily benched 505 lbs and deadlifted 605 and 660 lbs which looked like he could just walk around with it. He totaled a big 2070 lbs to win 1st place in MO242 and became a new 242 lb “APF Elite Lifter”.
And now the big man….343 lb Chris Clark from Granite City Barbell. He is the current SHW APF Men’s submaster champion. Getting on the platform with what seemed to be at least half of the big guys here as spotters, Chris got under his 1st squat attempt of 935 lbs. As he shoulders that tremendous weight he just kind of slowly leans too far back into the arms of the spotters..good job guys! On his 2nd attempt he successfully took it down but just couldn’t push it up …again, good job spotters….no problem. He wasn’t going to let that happen again. On his 3rd attempt he solidly blasted up that 935 like he was really mad at it!! Good lift. WOW! The crowd loves this guy. His 3 solid benchpresses of 600, 650 and 675 lbs had the audience on their feet with admiration and applause. He opened his deadlifting with a giant 675 lb attempt and made it, strong and solid, no question. Passing on his 2nd attempt, he called for a monster 795 lbs for his 3rd. Pulling it up but not quite able to lock it out..he’s done for the day. And what a day it was. A total of 2285 lbs for this already “Elite Lifter” with a 1st place trophy and the biggest squat, biggest bench (for a powerlifter), and the biggest deadlift of the meet as well as “Best Male Lifter”, Thanks Chris for your help and an exciting Powerlifting exhibition.
As we cleared the platform to get ready for the bench, I took a little time to recognize the great team that helped us put on this meet.
Even though we wove the bench only lifters in with the powerlifters benchpressing, I’ll list them separately…get ready for this!!
Before the lifters hit the platform we were treated to a bench exhibition by 6 year old Hagan “Big Boy” Smith. Getting good advice and the hand-off from his dad Michael, he easily pushed up 50 lbs for his 1st attempt and finished with a body weight bench of 80 lbs. We’re looking forward to seeing him in the future
Our first lifter was Dillon Blackmon from Rock Hill, SC, competing in his first meet. At 221 lbs, this 15 year old is a “big kid”. He opened with a raw benchpress of 250 lbs, good lift! Putting on his shirt for his 2nd attempt he makes 330 lbs look easy. A shot at 350 was a little too much, but his 330 lb lift was enough for a 1st place trophy, a new SC State record and a new American Record….Congratulations!
Up next was Master Allah from Charlotte, NC. At 164 lbs he is a good lifter and has won APF and Iron Boy trophies in the past. He makes a good solid 345 lbs but can’t quite get 375. He earned 2nd place in MO165.
Chad Tucker, also in MO165, our next bencher trains with “Team Torture” in Monroe NC. He also has won APF and Iron Boy trophies for his lifting. He opened with a big 415 lbs, and made it! Up to 425 for another super lift. A try at 435 was so close, but no good. He won 1st place in his division and the crowds approval.
Killer Williams, one of our meet coordinators from here in Rock Hill, got the crowds attention as he gets” psyched-up” for his 1st attempt. Whoo, Whoo!!..up it goes, 420 lbs, good lift! Two attempts with 440 just would not go, but he still earned a 1st place trophy in MM242 (45-49).
Up next was “Elite Lifter” Greg Crook, another “Team Torture” lifter from Monroe, NC. He is the 2006 APF Senior National Champion in MO181 and the NC State Powerlifting record holder in MO198. Today it was bench only for Greg. He opened with a strong 475 lbs. Good lift! Next at 505 lbs, also good, and a new PR for him. His last attempt with 515 was a hard lift, but no good. He got a 1st place trophy in MO 198.
John Robinson, the Special Olympic coach from Rock Hill, was our next lifter. This was his 1st competition and he lifted in MO SHW. But, for as much success as he had with the special Olympians, he just couldn’t get himself on track today. Three great attempts with 545 lbs just would not go. Smiling to thank the crowd for their applause acknowledging his great work with Special Olympics, he was just happy to be here today, and we were happy to have him!
And now, “Big Daddy” Eric Hubbs, one of our biggest supporters and meet coordinators in Rock Hill, on the bench. He is the 2006 APF National Bench Champion and the current SC State record holder of 551 lbs in MM275 (40-49). Opening with a big 550 lbs, he just could not get in to his groove. Two more attempts also proved futile. He was really pissed, but we know that “he’ll be back”. He’s a great bencher.
The “Head Executioner”, Grant Austin from Charlotte, NC was our next lifter. He has lifted with us before and proved to be a good lifter. At 240.5 lbs in MO242 he opened with his first attempt of 575 lbs. Not looking real solid, he appeared to have trouble with his shirt…no lift. His 2nd attempt with 575 again was tough, but good! For his 3rd attempt he called for 605 lbs, which he struggled with but does not give up…good lift! We look forward to seeing him again.
A.J. Coleman from Charlotte, NC was up next. He has lifted with us before and we know that this “big guy” can bench. A first attempt with 625 lbs was solid and steady for a good lift. Up to 675 for his 2nd, up it goes, a little slower this time, but no hesitation….3 white lites…good! A shot @ 700 lbs proved to be too much and got stuck half way up…good job spotters! A.J. earned a 1st place trophy in MO308.
Next up from Pulaski VA. was Michael Smith. Nobody gets more “pumping up” than Michael, courtesy of his wife, who we are sure just loves to smack this big guy around. He came to break his 635 lb bench record, but could not do it today. Three hard fought super efforts would not get 650 to go. Thanks for making the long trip. We know that you’ll get it next time.
At about this time we started to hear rumblings about a really big bench.
Curtis Rabon, from Salisbury, NC lifting in MO/MM 275 looked like he was ready to lift! Blowing up his opener of 650 lbs he looked very strong and solid. Moving up to 680, again good…. Wow, it looks like he’s done this before. His call for a 705 lb attempt had the crowd buzzing. BAM! Up and good….3 white lites. Not bad for this 42 year old lifter. That may be a new NC Bench record. Good job!
Who is that young man who handed off to Curtis? It’s 19 year old 291.5 lb Daniel Everhart lifting in J/T 308. Passing on his 1st he opened with a 700 lb attempt on his 2nd. Taking the hand- off, this big guy just took a deep breath and pressed it with no hesitation. Good lift, WOW! 700 lbs at 19 years old? But wait, it’s not over, he comes back for his last attempt with 750 lbs…that’s 750 lbs! The crowd was on its feet and moved in closer for a better look. He slams it up strong and solid..good lift!! We had just witnessed a new NC State record , a new APF American record and Daniel is the “Best Bench Presser” of the meet. We all knew that we were looking at a future world champion. Thanks Daniel for an exciting end to a great meet.
Special thanks to all of those who helped Marge and I with this meet.
Leon Mayes and son Andrew (photographers) deserve special mention for their new digital camera and printing system which allowed them to print out the lifter’s pictures on the spot. Everyone loved it. Thanks to Scott for helping set up and break down our platform. Jason Alderman of Fortress Martial Arts and the guys from Primal Iron kept the meet going smoothly and injury free. Darryl, the Hooters girls, the scoring table crew led by Lauren and Chris Kerley (helped by Minna, Sarah, and Jon Landon’s lovely wife) and of course the Pernick ‘s, all warrant our thanks. Thanks to Shana Smith who helped put the #’s on the bench so we could identify the lifters in photos, and to the crew from the Holiday Inn!! We’ll be back.
Will Millman
APF/AAPF SC State Chairman
