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2016 North American & Caribbean Powerlifting Championships…Mars elated with Squat, Bench Press Records & PB Deadlift; Erwyn Smith also gets PBs
By Franklin Wilson
Competing in the Open 105kg category, Mars cantered to a new Squat record of 340kg (749.6lb) erasing the old mark of 337.5kg (744.0lb) which was held by Puerto Rico’s Ramos Burgos and achieved in St. Croix, US
Medalists All! From left, Karel Mars (gold), Andrea Alicia Smith (bronze), Erwyn Smith (silver).
Virgin Islands on July 10th, 2014.
The Guyanese strongman also set a new mark of 212.5kg also with his third and final attempt in the bench press to topple another of Ramos’ records, also achieved in St. Croix on July 10th, 2014. The old mark stood at 210.0kg (462.75lb).
Mars also achieved a Personal Best with his third and final deadlift of 312.5kg (688.9lb).
Commenting on his achievements, Mars first gave God thanks for allowing him to be injury free to compete and bring glory for himself and country. He said preparation was intense for the competition whilst noting that the record achievement was done with ease.
“In relation to the records, this was done with ease and with more to spare. My biggest achievement however, was winning the Commonwealth powerlifting championships in Canada last year.”
Speaking candidly, Mars said more athlete investment is needed: “My hope is for our sport to be supported by the Ministry of Sport.”
The Space Gym member has extended thanks to his sponsors for their assistance, International Pharmaceutical Agency, Space Gym, Graham’s Bakery, Demerara Harbour Bridge, Prem’s and INDESCO.
Andrea Alicia Smith – rewarding competition despite injury
A member of Buddy’s Gym, Andrea Smith persevered despite picking up an injury less than two weeks to competition and while many would have thrown in the towel, Ms. Smith never entertained the thought of quitting.
Her reward would be the bronze medal in the Women’s 63kg Open category. She noted that preparation was rewarding and the injury she picked up resulted in her adjusting her expectations for the goals she had set for the competition.
“Nonetheless, I’m always appreciative for the opportunity to compete at this level and expand my experiences and expertise in the sport.”
Ms. Smith also lamented the fact that sponsorship continues to be a huge bug bear for athletes going to represent and bring pride and joy to their nation.
“Local funding is a consistent challenge which requires athletes and their governing federation or associations to be innovative and proactive in their approach. Such was my experience in finalizing this trip. To this end I am grateful to both government and private entities that contributed to the teams cause.”
Among the private entities that contributed to Ms Smith’s trip and to whom she extends appreciation are Guyoil, Hand in Hand and Evan’s Brothers Automotives.
Erwyn Smith achieves PBs in all his lifts
Erwyn Smith informed Kaieteur Sport that the championships, whilst allowing him to achieve Personal Bests in all three lifts (squat, bench press, deadlift) was very competitive. He noted that what made it more challenging was the fact that he had to wait four days to compete.
“It was a tough competition for me waiting so many days to compete, but having my teammates around me helped me keep my composure and focus.”
Smith’s PBs were: Squat 252.5kg (556.7lb); Bench Press 142.5kg (314.2lb) and Deadlift 272.5kg (600.8lb). The Tower Gym member noted that the 600+ deadlift achievement was his most accomplished.
“I competed against nine lifters from around the globe but worked hard and came in second place,” Smith concluded. He is thankful to Tower Suits, Demerara Mutual and Footsteps for their contributions which allowed him to be able to participate.
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