Local lifters qualify for world championships
world championships - Two Claresholm powerlifters have qualified for the world championships in Costa Mesa, California, and the Kinette Club of Claresholm is helping them with the cost of travel. At left is powerlifter Andrew Morking while at right is powerlifter Brenda Helmer. They are receiving a cheque for $300 from Jody Bowyer, in the middle, of the Kinettes. Photo by Rob Vogt
By Rob Vogt, Local Press Writer
Two Claresholm powerlifters who train with a team based in Nanton have qualified for the international championships in California.
On Sept. 18, Decidedly Fit took a team of 12 lifters to the Canadian Powerlifting League Tested Provincial Championships in Rocky Mountain House. The meet was held in a local fitness centre called Blackstone RMH and was promoted by Jennie McMasters of Nanton.
Brenda Helmer, of Claresholm, took first place in the push/pull, set two national records, and qualified for the world championships.
Andrew Morkin, of Claresholm, took first place in his class, set four national sun master records, and qualified for the world championships.
The International Powerlifting League Tested World Championships will run from Nov. 3 to 8 in Costa Mesa, California.
Powerlifting is a strength sport consisting of three attempts at maximal weight on three lifts: squat, bench press, and deadlift. In the squat, the lifter lowers their hips from a standing position and then stands back up.
In the bench press, the lifter presses a weight upwards while lying on a weight training bench.
In the deadlift, a loaded barbell or bar is lifted off the ground to the level of the hips, torso perpendicular to the floor, before being placed back on the ground. There are three judges who are not as concerned about lifting as much as the lift being deliberate, slow and under complete control.
The team qualified eight athletes in total, representing southern Alberta on Team Canada, an unprecedented number.