Written by: Hannah G.
A powerlifting competition will happen at KCI on November 20th in the blue gym. The powerlifting competition will showcase the strength of the competitors here at KCI. The Edge recently interviewed Mr. Withers, the coach of the team, and one of the student participants, Clara, to get some insight into what the competition will look like.
One goal of this event is to raise awareness of the sport, as not everyone knows too much about powerlifting. At previous competitions, some students have deadlifted 500 pounds, and some female-identifying students can squat 300 pounds in this competition. It really puts into perspective how strong some of these young students can be.
Last year, there was a ‘mock’ competition. Students squatted 360 pounds, bench pressed 275 pounds, and deadlifted around 430 pounds. There is lots of competition in this contest, so Raiders will be working hard to get ready. Coach Mr. Withers shared his support, stating, ‘’I really hope KCI wins this competition.” KCI competitors will be working hard to make this happen.
For some of the students, powerlifting is not a new sport, but rather just a good experience. The Edge interviewed Clara, one of the students involved in KCI’s upcoming powerlifting competition, and she has been weightlifting since she was twelve. She said how this is different for her because now she works with a group, not just solo like usual. Clara mentioned that she gets to meet all sorts of young people interested in powerlifting.
This club started recently, there are not too many members, so the team really wants to raise awareness from this competition so more people can have the opportunity to join.
Students who are in this club have lots of ambition, including Clara. She said that her “personal goal is to get first place, and just get on the leader board for one of the strongest people.’’ Right now, she bench presses about 155 pounds, squats 235 pounds, and can deadlift 275 pounds. She believes that her already impressive accomplishments can make her ambitions achievable.
Ultimately, Mr. Withers and student competitors, like Clara, agree that powerlifting is a great way to showcase explosive energy, strength, and even stamina. This competition is a great way that Raiders can show their KCI spirit and promote this sport so more people can know about it and join!