WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

(Annual Championship Results will be listed after each event)

2002 World Championship
October 26, Plano, Texas

Story By: Everette Griggs
Photo's By: Kristin Tallal

This was to be the INSA's second annual World Championship. There were over 100 athletes that had qualified to attend this year's event. This was also the first time ever that Special Needs Athletes have ever competed with athletes from the general population. The INSA and Team BATS from Birdville, Texas, have started a new and exciting trend in the sport of Powerlifting.

The powerlifting meet got off to the tremendous start as the women pushed some hardcore weight. Most of the opening lifts in Flight A were sought after and conquered by the women featured in the meet. Yvette Murrieta had a successful opening first lift, as did Diane Weatherly. Heather Hughes, and Heather Whited also had successful first lifts, not to mention world records set on their opening lifts by Krstal Rameriez, and Rebecca Nieto. The second round was a different story, however.

Katie Ramierez geared herself up for her second attempt squatting 72.5 kg. There was a slight problem as Ramierez went down for her squat, but she was able to explode upward out of it for a successful lift. Melissa Aguire didn't fair as well as one side of the barbell tipped more than was allowable leading to an unsuccessful second lift. Yvette Murietta had problems with her lift as well, and unfortunately did a double dip leading to an unsuccessful squat. Diane Weatherly also experienced a slight setback as she had a slight twist during her squat attempt. Second attempts on Flight A didn't go without any successful lifts, as Natalie Moore, Patricia Chavira, B. Burdick, and K. Ramierez proved that they were more than up to the challenge. L. Burdick was able to set a world record with her 127.5 kg squat. With a slight trembling of the legs, but a will that just couldn't be extinguished, Pat Leggett showed also that she was ready for setting a world record as she accomplished her 95 kg squat. Third attempts had some mixed results as well.

Diane Weatherly valiantly went after that 192.5 kg world record. Unfortunately, it just wasn't within her grasp. K. Rameriez also barely missed her 87.5 world record attempt. It just didn't seem to be in the cards this go round for Brandis DeOreo, B. Burdick, and Aguire. This round of attempts wasn't without its victors. Nicki Ortiz made her 87.5 kg squat look easy, and Kat Leggett was able to make her 107.5 kg squat though with some trouble. Flight A was rounded out with successful lifts made by Chavira, Moore, and L. Burdick. Overall, the women truly showed that they came to this meet to show their male counterparts, and themselves that they meant business, as many world records were made and broken this day. Flight B also showed some serious muscle going after some serious lifts. The men stepped up to the plate in Flight B and showed that they were ready and gunning to lift some heavy weight, but the opening lifts were not to be as easily handled as they were in Flight A. Zig showed determination to open well, but missed his 60kg squat. Other squats were missed due to slight errors. Eric Gunn missed his squat by coming up too soon, and Brian Davis didn't go quite deep enough and narrowly missed his 105 kg squat attempt. Better luck was found by some of the other competitors, however, as Ted Wooley, Joe Ojeda, and Luke Bevill (who had heart surgery last year), were able to accomplish their opening lifts. Jorge Aguirre hit his 140 kg squat, and Jeremy Scruggs showed his mettle as he successfully completed his 157.5 kg opening squat. Eric DiFrancesco conquered his 250 kg opening squat, and John Smiley made his 177.5 kg squat opener look easy, but the "strictest form on a squat" award would have to go to Mark Galinsky, as he used very good form to conquer his 175 kg opening squat. Although he had competed before as a bodybuilder, this was the first powerlifting meet for Galinsky. Daniel Van Huss was one of the numbers who made a world record squat, as was Sebastian Cofer who made his 237.5 kg world record opener. The second squat attempts of Flight B, for some reason, seemed to come much easier, though with just as much effort and determination. Zilgian (Zig) Aguirre was able to make his 60 kg second attempt, as was Nathan Smith for his 75 kg attempt. These two young men showed much potential at the meet, and it could easily be seen as to why these two will be apart of the next generation of powerlifters. Van Huss had a successful 125 kg world record attempt with Davis showing strong as he set his world record 130kg making the lift look easy. Galinsky, Jorge Aguirre (140 kg), Scruggs (162.5 kg) , Willie Smith (185 kg), Smiley (187.5 kg), and Gunn (227.5 kg). Willie Smith went all out for 227.5 kg squat as well. It was a bit of a struggle, but he let out a triumphant yell as he stood it all the way up for a successful squat. There were some personal disappointments felt by the lifters on the world record attempts. Bevill looked good going down for his squat of 212.5 kg, but had a bit of trouble as he started to go back down after almost standing up leading to an unsuccessful squat attempt. Difrancesco encountered some trouble as he experienced a loss of control of the bar during his 275 kg world record squat attempt. Joe Ojeda was given good news when he was informed of his successful 202.5 kg world record attempt, and Sebastian Cofer had a similar happening as he met his 257.5 kg world record attempt with success and much congratulatory words from friends and fellow lifters. This, of course, lead the flight into it's round of third attempts. Aguirre and Smith were successful at their world record attempts of 70 kg and 80 kg respectively. Van Huss just barely missed the two inch lockout point on his 133.5 world record squat attempt, and Aguirre didn't go low enough as he missed his 152.5 kg squat attempt. A similar situation happened to Gunn, as he missed his 237.5 kg world record attempt, and Smiley was a bit short on smiles as he narrowly missed his 197.5 world record attempt. Cofer, being very enthusiastic about his lift, went ahead of the signal which cost him a successful lift, while Ojeda got stuck on the bottom, and wasn't able to recover missing his squat attempt as well. Bevill also experienced difficulties, missing his 212.5 kg squat attempt. Willie Smith "got jiggy with it", and was able to make a successful 195 kg squat, as did Harp for a world record 102.5 kg squat and Galinsky, again with excellent form, with his 195 kg world record squat. At this point, it would seem that the lifters of this flight had nothing left to give, but that notion was definitely proven wrong as the flight moved into it's fourth attempts. Cofer was definitely more poised and ready as he went into his fourth squat attempt. He looked strong going into the squat, but again fate would have its way as he double dipped on the way back up, and again he was denied a successful lift. Harp wasn't able to hear the sound of victory either, missing his 112.5 kg world record attempt. Two white lights would be a welcome sight for Aguirre validating his successful 75 kg squat, and John Smiley was also in notably good graces as he completed as successful 197.5 kg squat.

It was now time for Flight C to take the stage. Steve Burns was able to make a successful INSA world record opening lift, and success was also bestowed upon Ross Weardon as he blasted through his opening squat. Emerson was also able to hit his 255 kg opening squat. Emerson was doing well with his 265 kg squat attempt, but unfortunately lost his balance coming back up, leading to an unsuccessful lift. Shelby Jones was looking good as well on his opening squat, especially on the way back up, but again Murphy's Law took over and he lost control of the bar leading to solid reds for the lift. There were some near misses on this flight, but also some solid successful lifts were to be had as Bennie Foreman got his 267.5 kg squat and Randall Harris made good on his 350 kg squat. The lighter squat attempts for the second round had some troubles to overcome, but the heavier attempts seemed to have more success.

 

Many good lifts were to be had during the second attempts of flight C, but also some near misses. Lee Huddle gave a valiant effort, but just wasn't able to make his 222.5 kg squat. Tom Foley truly went all out for his squat attempt of 247.5 kg, but just didn't go deep enough. The tide turned, however, as Steve Burns's hit his 225.5 kg attempt. Good fortune was to again follow as David Rogers made his 230 kg lift. Watson conquered his 272.5 kg squat, Ringer made good at his 292.5 kg, Casey Tumlinson did well with his 307.5 kg squat, and with a slight struggle on the way up, Emerson showed he was pumped and ready as he made his 265 kg squat. Although Harris was successful at his second squat attempt, it just wasn't there for Meza, who didn't go deep enough to get enough white lights to quantify his 350 kg squat. Eric had a similar problem missing his 377 kg squat. Jeff Weatherly made his 310 kg squat, and Wearden showed his 317.5 kg squat that was boss. Most noted, Shelby Jones, who needed this lift to stay in the meet, through great determination made his 310 kg squat. A few fourth attempts finished out this flight and squat portion of the meet.

David Rogers went vehemently after his fourth squat attempt, but unfortunately tipped backwards leading to an unsuccessful squat. Foley also went all out but wasn't able to attain his 272.5 kg lift. Better fortune was to be found by Randall Harris, however, as he successfully completed his 365 kg squat for the INSA world record.

In order to keep things running smoothly, the meet went straight into the bench press without a break. Flight A was ready to go as they breezed through their opening attempts. The second attempts for this flight proved to be, for the most part, no problem as well. The second attempts in the bench press went very well for Flight A. Katie Rameriez hit her 42.5 kg opening bench for an INSA world record. Krystal Rameriez did well also as she nailed her 45 kg INSA world record.

Unfortunately, Aguire didn't fair as well as she missed her 45 kg bench, but Kat Leggett was able to reinstate Flight A's winning streak as she set the INSA world record with her 47.5 kg bench. DeOreo demolished her 52.5 kg INSA world record bench press, as did Alex Alexandria with an INSA 60 kg bench press world record. Chavira showed much heart as she went for her 57.5 kg squat, but she just wasn't able to do it this time around, while an INSA world record was to be obtained by Jill Rios as she successfully benched 60 kg. Another INSA bench press world record was accomplished by Whited as she made her 62.5 kg attempt. Hughes demonstrated her seriousness about the competition as she went after and overcame her 62.5 kg squat, as well as, Natalie Moore who definitely rose to the occasion as she successfully completed her 67.5 kg bench. The second attempts, for the most part, seemed almost child's play for Flight A. The third attempts, however, would prove to be a bit more challenging. The third attempts on the bench press for Flight A had a couple of near hits and misses. Vallejo had control on the down part of her 32.5 kg bench press attempt, but experienced a tipping of the bar leading to an unsuccessful lift. Nieto had the bar come back down leading to red lights on her 37.5 kg bench press attempt, and it just wasn't there for Aguire on her 45 kg attempt, or Rameriez on her 47.5 kg attempt. Things started to change for this flight, however, as Ortiz landed her 42.5 kg bench press for the INSA world record, and Leggett also landed an INSA world record with her 50 kg bench. The tipping of the bar occurred again as Murrietta came close, but not quite, to accomplishing her 52.5 kg bench. DeOreo pushed hard as well with her 55 kg bench press attempt. Unfortunately, DeOreo wasn't quite able to complete the lockout faze of the bench, and Rios narrowly missed her 62.5 kg bench attempt. Chavira was able to change the tide as she completed her 57.5 kg bench for the INSA world record. World records for the INSA were also to be had Hughes and Whited with their individual 65 kg benches, and B. Burdick with a 75 kg bench. L. Burdick wasn't quite able to make her 72.5 kg bench attempt, and a very noble effort was made on the part of Diane Weatherly as she went after her 127.5 kg bench attempt. D. Weatherly did well on the descent part of her bench, but got stuck on the pressing motion. Many offered yells and cheers of encouragement as D. Weatherly tried whole-heartedly to press on, but it was to no avail. The third attempts were much more difficult than the previous attempts for this flight, and the fourth attempts would truly be a challenge to overcome. The fourth attempts for Flight A in the bench press got off to a rocky start. Vallejo narrowly missed her 32.5 kg bench attempt, as did Nieto for 37.5 kg, who pressed a little bit before being given the signal, Nikki Ortiz for 47.5 kg, and Murrietta and Leggett both missed their 52.5 kg bench press attempts. Katie Ramierez helped to pick up the winning pace as she nailed her 47.5 kg bench for the INSA world record. Trouble started brewing again however, as the tipping of the barbell lead to the denying of a successful bench by DeOreo on her 55 kg attempt, and Chavira on her 60 kg bench attempt. Krystal Rameriez came close, but not quite, to completing her 65 kg bench attempt, while a similar fate befell Hughes on her 67.5 kg attempt. The 70 kg bench press attempt challenge was met head on but just couldn't be overcome by this flight. Whitted put out a tremendous effort, as did Alexandria, but they just weren't able to push the 70 kg weight to the lock out position were it could be rated a successful lift. Natalie Moore gave a valiant effort, as well, on her 70 kg bench press attempt, but her heroic efforts were met with sad disappointment as the bar started to come back down as the spotters stepped in to lend assistance. 72.5 kg must have been the magic number, as L. Burdick successfully completed her bench press lift for the INSA world record. Another world record for the INSA was accomplished, this time by B. Burdick with her 80 kg bench. Much was to be overcame by this flight on the bench press, but it set a good pace for this part of the meet, as flight B took their place on the lifting platform.

Flight B did very well, and came on strong with their opening bench press attempts. Harp was able to hit his opening 67.5 kg lift, and Van Huss was also successful and ready to kick things off as he completed his 72.5 kg bench. Gerald Zenick also did well as he got his 77.5 kg bench press. Aguirre had it in the bag on his 85 kg bench press while DuJuan Calvo kept the momentum going hitting his 90 kg bench. The rest of this round of bench presses for Flight B wasn't to be out done as Davis successfully completed his bench press of 97.5 kg, as did Galinsky for 100 kg and Scruggs with his 105 kg bench. The second attempts for this flight were also impressive, but there was much more to be said for the fortitude it took flight B to face their third attempts, which
proved to be the most grueling.

Harp, again gave a strong effort in his lift this round, but wasn't able to conquer his 70 kg bench press attempt. Van Huss shared a similar fate as he missed his 82.5 kg bench attempt, while Gerald Zenick and Zig Aguirre just missed it for their individual 92.5 attempts. Things started to turn around for this flight, as Davis made good on his 102.5 kg bench press, setting the INSA world record. Unfortunately, that good fortune didn't follow Calvo or Scruggs, as Calvo missed his 105 kg attempt, and Scruggs missed his 110 kg attempt. Galinsky, showing very strict form once again, accomplished his 117.5 INSA world record bench. Jeff Weatherly made a valiant effort, but just barely missed his 122.5 kg attempt; as did Ted Wooley, for the same weight not being able to conquer this bench attempt either. W. Smith gave it all he had, but came up short on his 140 kg bench attempt, and Ojeda truly wanted this lift, but wasn't able to make his 147.5 kg attempt.

Much better news was to be heard by Slade Stephens as he got the white lights he needed to officially validate his 157.5 kg bench. Difrancesco, a vigilant athlete and fierce competitor, just wasn't able to make his 165 kg bench attempt, and neither was Sebastian Cofer for his 182.5 kg attempt. Eric Gunn really psyched himself up for his bench attempt. But after a few intense slaps to the face and back, he just wasn't able to push through on his 160 kg attempt.

Definitely, this was a tough go around for flight B, but the fourth attempts did have its share of victories, as well as, disappointments. Harp, trying to tackle his 70 kg attempt again after missing it in his previous attempt, still wasn't able to make it on this bench press attempt. Van Huss went for what he knew, but again was not able to make his 82.5 kg attempt. Smiley didn't fair well either on his 122.5 kg bench attempt, but Galinsky was able to make this his magic number as he successfully benched 122.5, which was also for the INSA world record. Cofer knew what he was up against, and took some time to really get himself focused on his bench. On the platform he steadied himself, making sure his feet were still, and stayed still during the entire lift. His extra focus and attention to detail was rewarded as he claimed victory over his 182.5 kg bench. Flight B showed alot of heart as they truly gave it their all in their bench press attempts. Flight C was up next, pumped and ready to show that they too meant business, and was ready to move some serious poundage.

 

Flight C definitely opened up strong on the bench press. Burns did great on his opening bench hitting his 120 kg attempt. David Rogers did well with his 127.5 kg bench press, as did Huddle on his 142.5 kg opening lift. Cody Tidwell was pretty excited about competing on that day, which unfortunately led to his pressing the bar before the press command, and he missed his 145 kg opening lift. Veteran Shelby Jones showed one and all how it was done making his 145 kg opening bench look easy. Jim Parham made an inspiring lift for 155 kgs, and Gibson pushed strong hitting his 157.5 kg bench. Bench pressing 165 kg for their opening lifts was a feat shared by Ivanov, McLean, and Randall Ward. Ringer decided to go for a little more on his opening bench, and was successful at his 167 kg attempt. The excitement must have overtaken Brown, for he made his 170 kg bench look easy, but being new to powerlifting he didn't quite realize the importance of waiting for the press and rack signals, and unfortunately had to deal with the agony of an easy lift that was ruled unsatisfactory. Weatherly showed his veteran status as he breezed through his 172.5 kg bench with good attention to form and detail. Arguelles had no problem with his 172.5 kg bench either. Craig Bowen and Bennie Foreman did very well on their opening individual benches of 175 kg while Burt Tyree made good on his opening bench of 200 kg. Meza pushed hard, but even after giving it all he had he just couldn't push through on his 210 kg bench press attempt, but Armijo faired better and was able to complete his 207.5 kg bench while Ross Wearden, Allan Grissom, Mark Gibson, and Casey Tumlinson did well on their opening benches as well. The first attempts for flight C went pretty well, and second attempts were even more awesome, but not as easily handled as the first.

Ivanov did well on his second attempt; Brown took care of business with his 172.5 kg bench attempt. Desmond McLean did well with 172.5 kg as well. Ringer showed strong as well, as he conquered his 177.5 kg bench. Arguelles worked hard, but wasn't quite able to make his 185 kg bench attempt. Burt Tyree did well with his second bench press attempt, but even after a couple of slaps to the neck, unfortunately Ross Wearden wasn't quite able to make his 232.5 kg bench attempt. Grissom got the ball rolling again after he made his 232.5 kg bench and Harris was successful as well with a strong 242.5 kg bench. Tumlinson, with a few slaps to the neck, got himself fired up and ready to go for his bench press attempt. Tumlinson pressed hard and stayed with it, and was rewarded with a victory upon completion of his 247.5 kg bench press. Armijo was hoping to go with the flow of victories, and pressed hard as well, but had a bit of trouble as the spotters had to step in to rerack the 247.5 bench press bar. The second attempts had a pretty good balance of good and bad lifts. Unfortunately, the scales would not be in the lifters favor as they went into their third attempts on the bench press.

Burns tried hard, but just wasn't able to make his 140 kg bench press attempt, nor was Foley able to get his at 142.5 kg. Huddle went ahead and scratched this lift already having what he needed, and trying to conserve energy for the grueling deadlifts that were to come. Parham tried to push the envelope a bit, but wasn't able to get his 170 kg bench, while Grissom, and Harris reaped a disappointing harvest to their valiant efforts on the bench as well. Randall Ward was able to pick up the winning pace with a successful bench, as did Ivanov for his 180 kg bench, and Weatherly for 205 kg. Unfortunately success was not to be had by Ringer on his 180.5 kg bench attempt, nor was it there for Bowen on his 190 kg attempt. Brown, after getting some advice, and words of encouragement, waited on the press and rack signals, and was able to successfully complete his 175 kg bench. Ross Wearden walked up preparing himself for his lift. With friends yelling words of encouragement, Wearden prepped for his bench. The down part looked good with a slow rise on the press, but Wearden pressed on and was rewarded with a successful 230 kg bench. Flight C had some impressive benches, and now
the INSA was ready to bring on the challenge of the deadlift.

Flight A was ready to go to start off the deadlift - the final portion of the meet. Their first attempts came pretty easy, and flight A's second attempts came pretty easy to them as well. Viejo and Nieto did very well as they individually deadlifted 70 kg. Katie Rameriez did well with 82.5 kg deadlift, as did Farris and Ortiz with their individual 85 kg deadlifts. Krystal Rameriez, not to be out done, pulled hard and nailed her 90 kg deadlift for the INSA world record. DeOreo wanted a world record of her own, and pulled with all her might to clench her 97.5 kg deadlift for the INSA world record. Aguirre followed in DeOreo's footsteps, also making the 97.5 kg deadlift. Rios stepped up to the plate and hit a homerun with 100 kg lift. Murrieta, and Wooded couldn't wait to show the other lifters what they were made of, and successfully completed their individual 105 kg deadlift. Leggett squared off and conquered her 110 kg INSA world record deadlift, while B. Burdick set herself up for her INSA world record 115 kg deadlift. L. Burdick was trying to push the envelope a bit with her lift, but just wasn't quite able to make it happen on her 122.5 kg attempt. Natalie Moore stayed with the same weight for her second deadlift that was previously attempted by L. Burdick. It looked close as she had a bit of trouble with the final lock out point of the deadlift, but she stayed with it, and completed the lockout faze for a successful 122.5 kg lift. Chavira gave a valiant effort, but just wasn't able to make things happen on her 132.5 kg lift. Hughes shared a similar fate as she was unable to complete her 145 kg deadlift attempt, but Diane Weatherly, through strong will and determination, was able to help finish out the flight with a successful lift. The third attempts had similar completions and failures, but the fourth attempts really showed the true grit of this flight.

Farris pulled hard, but just wasn't able to make her 102.5 kg attempt, but Katie Rameriez was able to conquer this weight, and was given the white lights to validate her 102.5 kg deadlift. Vallejo was able to complete a successful lift, as well, with an 82.5 kg deadlift clinching for her the INSA world record. Another INSA world record was to be had by none other than Nieto who did well on her 85 kg lift. This flight did well on its lifts, and the meet went on to usher in the lifting to be done by flight B.

Flight B was fired up and ready to go. They did very well on their opening lifts. Herbert did well with his deadlift of 55 kg. Nathan Smith followed suit with a successful lift of 77.5 kg as did Zig Aguirre for 92.5 kg, Harp for 100 kg, and Van Huss for 137.5 kg. Davis pulled hard and was also able to make the 137.5 kg deadlift. Jorge Aguirre made good on his 150 kg deadlift, unfortunately it just wasn't there for Smiley as he missed his opening deadlift. Galinsky, again focusing very intently on form, and execution, was successful on his opening deadlift of 182.5 kg. Jones did well on his deadlift, and Bevill got himself ready for battle. Bevill rode the wave of victory, as well, as he pulled through on his 190 kg lift. Scruggs showed the others what he was made of with a successful pull of 200 kg, as did Joe Ojeda and Ted Wooley for a good solid 205 kg individually. Eric DiFrancesco was ready to take it up a notch, and pulled 230 kg for the INSA world record. DiFrancesco showed much enthusiasm as he celebrated with family and friends. But this flight was far from being finished with their opening lifts. Coffer did very well on his opening lift, making the 237.5 kg deadlift, and Gunn pulled 247.5 kg made his opener look easy. W. Smith, with a slow and controlled rise, made good on his 260 kg deadlift attempt, while Mark Hall did himself proud as he pulled victoriously on his 272.5 kg lift. The first attempts for this flight were fairly forthcoming, and the second attempts offered much the same with a little uneasiness here and there.

Herbert did well on his 62.5 kg deadlift to get his INSA world record, and Nathan Smith also got a INSA world record with his 85 kg lift. It just wasn't to be had for Z. Aguirre as he tried his best, but just wasn't able to pull the 100 kg to clench a victory for this attempt. Harp followed up with a good pull though on his 110 kg INSA world record deadlift. Van Huss, also ready to show that he meant business, pulled through on his 145 kg lift, which was also for an INSA world record. Davis was ready to get a world record as well, as he successfully deadlifted 147.5 kg. J. Aguirre was definitely hungry for an INSA world record as he completed his 162.5 kg lift. John Smiley got a little stuck in the middle of his deadlift attempt, but was able to pull through and made his 177.5 kg lift. Bevill, again very serious about his preparations for his lift, reached a hand to heaven as he gave a stern gaze upward, then he settled down into his stance for his lift. His intense preparation paid off as he was awarded the white lights for a successful 195 kg deadlift. Galinsky did well with his 197.5 kg lift focusing again on form, not wishing to take chances with obtaining too many red lights on his second deadlift attempt. 210 kg was the challenge to be met by Scruggs, and Ojeda, but in their own way. Scruggs had a very slow and deliberate execution of his pull, but was able to make good on his lift. Ojeda focused and pulled a bit more confidently, but nevertheless with attention to good form. He was awarded white lights for a good lift, as he threw his hands up in victory. Difrancesco, also showed a triumphant disposition as he conquered his
250 kg lift for the INSA world record.

Cofer showed all the lifters how it was done, as he gave a strong pull with a very controlled return on his 257.5 kg deadlift. Eric Gunn had thumbs high and head shaking as he fired himself up for his second attempt. Friends gave encouragement from the sidelines and cheered him on, as Gunn set himself to make his attempt. It was a strong, but somewhat difficult pull, but Gunn was nonetheless victorious over his 265 kg deadlift. Smith was hoping to raise the bar somewhat with his second attempt, but it just wasn't there as he missed
his 272.5 kg deadlift attempt. Mark Hall worked hard on his second attempt, and came very close, but he just couldn't get his hips to lock all the way out, leading to an unsuccessful deadlift attempt for 295 kg. Second attempts for this flight were met with many victories, but the third attempts would prove to be a bit more daunting for the athletes.

Herbert, again did well as he hit his 67.5 kg lift getting the INSA world record. Another world record was to be awarded to 97.5 kg deadlift. Now the winds of fate began to change, as many superb lifters were unable to accomplish the task they had set before themselves. Z. Aguierre pulled hard but wasn't able to make his 100 kg deadlift. Van Huss tried deliberately but wasn't able to successfully pull his 150 kg attempt. Smiley missed on his 182.5 kg attempt, as did Scruggs for 215 kg. Smith was able to turn it around a bit as he did well on his 97.5 kg attempt for the INSA world record in the deadlift. Harp, also claimed a world record as he successfully pulled 115 kg. INSA world records were also to be given to J. Aguirre as he completed his 172.5 kg lift, Davis for his 175 kg lift, Bevill for his 202.5 kg lift, and Galinsky for his 205 kg lift. The tides of darkness set in once again, as Scruggs couldn't quite complete his 215 kg deadlift. Wooley pulled as hard as he could, but just couldn't lock it out for a victory over his 217.5 kg attempt. Ojeda had similar dealings with his deadlift attempt of 227.5, Difrancesco was not to enjoy the thrill of victory this time around as he missed his 255 kg attempt. Cofer looked very strong and determined as he went for his 262.5 deadlift attempt, but just wasn't able to make it happen. Smith was close, but no dice on his 272.5 kg attempt. Eric Gunn stepped up to the platform to see if the battle would fall in his favor, or If fatigue and pain would win the day. Gunn took hold of the bar and pulled for all he was worth, and then after being given the down signal, slowly let the bar descend. One red light came up, which disheartened those that were watching, but Gunn was not to be disappointed as two white lights appeared marking his 275 kg lift a success, and as an added bonus was for an INSA world record. Mark Hall, was truly ready to go for his lift. He stared down that bar, and set himself up for his pull. He did well on the up the way out, leading to an unsuccessful deadlift attempt for 300 kg. In spite of it all, Hall showed good sportsmanship about it by thanking the judges, spotters, and other meet personnel. Truly, it was an honor to witness first hand the kind of behavior that makes this sport great. The third attempts proved to be more torturous than the previous attempts, but the fourth attempts had alot more good news for this flight than would have been expected.

Most of the athletes in flight B didn't need to make a fourth attempt already acquiring the poundage needed for a good placing, but there were those who wished to put forth a little more, and to demonstrate their true love for this sport. Herbert went for his fourth and final attempt, and was again successful with an INSA world record deadlift of 72.5 kg. Smith did well on his fourth as he made his 105 kg lift. Harp was ready to go for it all and was met with success on his 127.5 kg attempt. Gunn gave it all he had, but just couldn't finish out his 282.5 kg attempt. Bevill worked equally hard for his lift, but didn't quite have it for his 210 kg attempt. Fortune was to rain on the shoulders of Davis, however, as he made good on his 182.5 kg attempt, which netted him the INSA world record. Flight B did themselves proud on the deadlift. Some impressive weight was pulled by this particular flight. Now it was flight C's turn to step up to the mound and deliver the pitch that would determine who would take home the trophies and prizes to be awarded later on that night. Flight C had some impressive lifts as their openers on the deadlift. Rogers did well on his opening attempt which afforded him an INSA world record with his 205 kg lift. Foley also had good things to look forward to as he nailed his 225 kg deadlift. Tidwell, and Huddle were to share equal honors as they both accomplished the feat of deadlifting 227.5 kg. Burns pulled hard and got his 235 kg lift, while Tumlinson showed that the big boys were in the house with his 270 kg opener. J. Weatherly and Ray Pierce both did well on their lifts of 272.5 kg. Ross Wearden was ready to show that he was no newbie to the deadlift platform as he successfully pulled 280 kg. Ringer stepped up to bat to get a homerun with his 295 kg opener, while Foreman showed his true stuff as he put his 330 kg deadlift to bed. The opening lifts were impressive indeed, but now it was time to see if they could keep their bodies going as flight C headed into its second attempts.

Rogers made good on his INSA world record 222.5 kg lift, as did Burns for 242.5 kg, which also was for an INSA world record. Foley did well with his 237.5 kg lift as did Tidwell and Huddle on their individual 250 kg deadlifts. J. Weatherly was in his hardcore focused zone as he got his 285 kg lift and Tumlinson did even better as he got his 307.5 kg lift. Fatigue was starting to set in as the other lifters stepped up to the platform. Wearden pulled with much fortitude, but just couldn't lock out his hips on his 290 kg attempt. Unfortunately Ringer didn't fair much better as he missed his 312.5 kg attempt, as did Foreman for 345 kg and Harris for 347.5 kg. Pierce knew what he was up against and was determined to do what many before him could not do. Pierce stepped up to the platform and gave a might pull. He was given the signal to return the bar to its starting position. It was a valiant effort that almost proved too much for his athletic prowess to take. But his efforts were well rewarded as he got the white lights that shined on his victorious 297.5 kg deadlift. "That's it!", declared Pierce as he walked off the platform. He had done well, and had proven many things to himself, and the other lifters around him. There would be no third attempt for him. His work had been done. The second attempts were impressive with a few problems here, and there, but the third attempts would prove to be a truly monumental obstacle for flight C to overcome.

Rogers, hoping to build off his previous success, just wasn't able to finish his 235 kg lift. Foley also had problems with his 255 kg attempt, as did Huddle for 260 kg and Tidwell for 280 kg. All hope was not lost, however, as J. Weatherly was able to shine a beacon of light as he successfully completed his 290 kg deadlift. Wearden attempted 290 kg as well. Wearden pulled hard on the bar, but had to release it, unable to complete the lift. Tumlinson gave a mighty effort as he went after his 317.5 kg attempt. He had the bar, and was coming up with it using a steady pace. It looked as if he would nail it without much problem, but then suddenly his hands and body gave out, and he had to release the bar. Harris was able to make things happen as he went after and conquered his 365 kg deadlift for the INSA world record.

 

With the addition of the new Special Needs Athletic Powerlifting Program, the INSA and Team BATS is hoping to bring much needed exposure to the sport of Powerlifting and special athletes in the near future. Team Bats was formed due to the discouraging problem that was found in the Special Athlete Programs. They found it very sad that many Special Athlete programs are closed to open enrollment. They soon located a number of parents who had the same problem. They also found it very sad that since so many teams are ISD teams, many high school graduates did not have a team in which to participate and so BATS was started in January of 2002. Their mission is to include every athlete including school age and high school graduates from surrounding areas who don't have a team in their area. BATS {Birdville Area Team Sports} currently have 20 athletes from Birdville, HEB, and Arlington including unified partners, ranging in ages 12 - 32. They participate in 3 sports, Cycling, Bocce Ball and Weightlifting. The Bocce ball Team returned from Fall Texas State Competition held in College Station, 7 athletes and came back with 6 Gold and 1 Silver Medal.

In June their dream was to have a power-lifting team, having no prior experience it was a new but frightening endeavor. They started visiting fitness centers inquiring about discount rates or membership donations. They felt it might take forever, but due to the generosity of HEB Harris fitness center and Director Beverly Anderson our dream became true. HEB Harris donated several memberships and assisted us in setting up training schedules and times. and are always readily available to help. They have 7 athletes preparing for the Special Olympic competition, Shane Coulson 32, Cory Buster 23, James Cropp 22, Joshua Altman 17, Brandon Ford 17, Charles Momentoff 17 & Derick Hawes 16. They practice 4 times per week on Tuesday and Thursday nights, Saturday and Sunday afternoon. When they began they found the 45-pound bar to be too heavy for some of our athletes to pick up with any control and confidence, 4 months later we see them picking up 175+ pounds with ease some lift as much as 225 -230 pounds.

They contacted Al Mendez, Powerlifting director for Texas Special Olympics, to find out how we could participate in competitions prior to their regional and state meets. They were referred to Kirk Stroud of Stroud's Fitness Center, Bedford Rd. in Hurst, and David Newingham of Nova Fitness of Florida. Kirk invited them to the fitness center one evening to watch their members practicing for their next competition. We were all mesmerized as we watched focused men and women lifting above 500 - 800 pounds. We were invited to compete at their World Championship to be able to lift in front of a crowd and before judges. So on October 26, we took 5 of our athletes Shane, Joshua, Charles, Brandon and Derick, to the Nova fitness INSA World Weightlifting Competition at Plano Community Center. Weigh in and coach meetings were at 7:30 so we got up early and headed to Plano some 45 minutes away. We sat to watch the Squat portion of the competition and noticed there were many things going on all over the center all in the same room. Behind us there was the World NMAA AGA Jujitsu championship bouts, and to our right was a huge obstacle course where the women of INFF were competing over walls and rope ladders and carrying dead weights around pile-ons and hurdling and ducking their way through unders and many other obstacles.

The Squat portion of the Competition ended at noon and it was announced that all spectators and competitors had a 1 hour break at were instructed to be back at 1:00 for the Bench press portion. And then it was announced that the Special Olympic Team Athletes would compete for those who would like to stay and watch. I did not see anyone exiting the room and saw all the chairs in our section quickly filling up. I had to negotiate the crowd as they were finding seating to watch our athletes. They began with the Squats and the Crowd was very enthusiastic and supportive. We then started our bench press. All 5 athletes had at least one good lift in each of the three categories. Charles jumped up after a successful Bench press and grabbed one of the spotters and gave him a big hug. Samm Stroud was the announcer and at that instant I saw her become flooded with emotion as she watched the efforts and determination of our athletes and how responsive the crowd was to them and they to the crowd. I wondered if she would be able to continue announcing but she regained her composure and announced the next athlete. Every Olympian did the best they could and we only had about 3 or 4 misses out of all 30 lifts attempted. When we had completed the Dead Lift portion and thus completed the competition all 5 athletes come to the platform for a picture and the crowd went loud clapping and giving our athletes a screaming standing ovation. I could just see the proud and excited look in each face as they went by me! I shook a hand gave a hug and they were so enthusiastic and excited. Throughout the day so many of the spectators and weightlifters came up to the team and congratulated them and told them how well they did. I feel it has been a rewarding experience for everyone involved and am thankful to David Newingham and Kirk Stroud for including us in this event.

The INSA is proud to be part of such a rewarding and special cause. Hopefully, we will be able to involve a Special Needs Athletic Program in every Powerlifting competition around the country. If any promoters are interested in a Special Needs Athletic Program in your area, please contact us for more information. We would like to congratulate every athlete that competed this weekend.