Powerlifters push new limits

CPO Helen Frank competed in Air Force’s first official powerlifting event, which attracted athletes from across the ADF.

The Air Force Powerlifting Competition took place on May 16 at the Adonis Athletics gym in Penrith, Sydney, and was sanctioned by the Australian Powerlifting Alliance (APA).

Competitors, including newcomers looking to experience the sport in a supportive environment, took part across novice and non-novice divisions, ensuring the event catered to lifters of all experience levels.

As someone who has competed in numerous civilian powerlifting competitions, CPO Frank said she was excited to finally have an all-military comp.

“I competed in the Masters National Championships only four weeks prior to this comp so didn’t prepare as I normally would,” she said.

“Despite that, I came away with a total only 5kg less than I lifted at Nats, so I’m super happy with that.

“Everyone was so enthusiastic and encouraging. We were all cheering for each other and I think we all made new friends.”

President of Air Force Powerlifting SQNLDR Evan McCloy said the event fostered confidence and participation within the Defence fitness community.

“This event was the first official run by Air Force powerlifting. We had around 20 competitors, including adaptive athletes who competed with modifications, and we achieved close to 50 per cent female participation across both competitors and staff,” he said.

“The competition was a positive showcase of both athletic performance and Defence community spirit.”

Powerlifting is a sport built around three core lifts: the back squat, bench press and deadlift.

Throughout the day, competitors demonstrated impressive technique and mental resilience as they attempted personal bests and pushed themselves on the platform.

The APA-sanctioned format ensured all lifts were judged to national competition standards, providing athletes with an authentic competitive experience.

After the competition, CPO Frank spoke to a civilian gym member helping out on the day, who said he’d never seen the gym get put back together so fast and so well.

“That’s how the military rolls,” she said.