On Saturday, September 23, 2023, the Fit Farm Fitness compound came alive with the power and determination of 45 out of 46 athletes participating in the GraceKennedy Money Services NPAJ National Deadlift Championship.
The platform was set for an intense competition that would determine the nation's strongest Deadlifter.
In a display of remarkable strength and skill, Roxroy Campbell, the reigning NPAJ 2022 male Deadlift Champion, successfully defended his title, solidifying his position as one of Jamaica's top powerlifters.
The female division saw the emergence of a new champion, Latasha Jackson, who was crowned the NPAJ female Deadlift Champion for 2023.
The growth and competitiveness of the NPAJ National Deadlift Championship were evident in the increased number of weight classes. The International Powerlifting Federation's sixteen (16) weight classes, divided equally between males and females, were well-represented, with thirteen (13) NPAJ athletes competing in various divisions.
This marked a significant expansion compared to the previous year when only ten (10) weight classes were contested. Furthermore, the 2023 championship witnessed an exciting development with nine (9) records from the 2022 Deadlift event being shattered, along with the establishment of three (3) new weight class records.
In the female’ s section, Deidre Lewis emerged as the champion in the 57 kg. weight class, lifting an impressive 134 kg. (295 lbs.) and accumulating 32.80 GL Points. It is worth noting that Deidre also set a new class record, further demonstrating her dominance in this category.
In the 63 kg. weight class championship, Dian Palmer emerged as the winner by lifting 100 kg. (220 lbs.) and scoring 22.18 GL Points. Dejanai Beckford, a new participant in NPAJ, secured the second position by lifting 93 kg. (205 lbs.) and scoring 21.54 GL Points. Beckford showed remarkable potential and is a rising star to watch in the future.
In the 69 kg. weight category, Shrona Scott emerged as the champion by lifting an impressive 152.27 kg. (335 lbs.) and earning 32.05 GL Points. Her remarkable performance not only secured her victory but also set a new record for the category, surpassing the previous mark set in 2022. Cheyenne Campbell closely followed in second place, also lifting 152.27 kg. (335 lbs.) with 31.63 GL Points, making it a fierce competition. Noellissa Swaby secured the third position with a lift of 95.45 kg. (210 lbs.) and 19.89 GL Points.
In the 76 kg. weight class, Chevaneese Powell successfully defended her title by lifting an impressive 159.09 kg. (350 lbs.) and earning 32.00 GL points. This remarkable achievement not only secured her title but also set a new record, surpassing her record from the previous year. However, Kishon Green and Nadesha Thompson were disqualified due to weight violations.
The 84 kg. weight class has a new champion in Latasha Jackson, a newcomer who lifted an astonishing 190.91 kg. (420 lbs.) and earned 36.34 GL Points. Latasha not only secured her victory but also set a new record, surpassing the previous mark set in 2022. Ayana Duhaney, the former class weight champion, secured the second position with a lift of 186.36 kg. (410 lbs.) and 35.72 GL Points. Tesi Scott claimed the third position by lifting 184.09 kg. (405 lbs.) and earning 35.16 GL Points.
In the 84 kg.+ weight class, Aiesha Denton successfully defended her title, lifting 188.64 kg. (415 lbs.) and scoring 33.35 GL Points. She also set a new record, surpassing her previous mark from 2022. Kerri-Ann McDonald, a newcomer, secured the second position by lifting 143.18 kg. (315 lbs.) and scoring 26.88 GL Points, while Kai Clarke finished third by lifting 136.36 kg. (300 lbs.) and scoring 24.63 GL Points. Unfortunately, Tashian Wallace was disqualification due to a weight violation.
In the men`s section of the 59 kg. weight class, Corey Taylor lifted an impressive 202.27 kg. (445 lbs.) to become the champion, setting a new class record and earning 31.48 GL points.
Competing in the 74 kg. weight class, Jaheem Forrester put on an impressive display of strength by lifting 247.73 kg. (545 lbs.) and earning 36.31 GL points. With this remarkable feat, Jaheem also set a new record, surpassing the previous mark of 147.4 kg. (325 lbs.) set by Raun Earle in 2022. Robert Williams, a Masters 3 athlete, secured the second spot in this class with a lift of 181.82 kg. (400 lbs.) and 28.13 GL points.
In the 83 kg. weight class, Nathan Dawkins was crowned class champion after lifting an incredible 268.18 kg. (590 lbs.) and earning 37.36 GL points. Nathan's performance set a new record, surpassing Jerome Tucker's previous mark of 249.4 kg. (550 lbs.) from 2022. Gary Adamson secured the second position by lifting 250 kg. (550 lbs.) and earning 34.65 GL points, while Nyib Howitt and Giovanni Land claimed the third and fourth positions, respectively. Unfortunately, Brent Lee and Joshua Ivey were disqualified due to weight violations.
The 93 kg. weight class saw defending champion Roxroy Campbell retaining his title with a powerful lift of 295.45 kg. (650 lbs.) and an impressive 39.35 GL points. Roxroy also established a new class record, surpassing Bruce Wilson's previous mark from the previous year. Stephaun Jarrett secured the second position with 279.55 kg. (615 lbs.) and 36.60 GL points, followed by Xavier McCarty, Mervin Barrett, Rushane Johnson, and Odijah Clarke. Daniel Palmer was disqualified for a weight violation.
In the 105 kg. weight class, the defending champion Staffon Commock maintained his title by lifting an incredible 300 kg. (660 lbs.) and earning 37.79 GL points. Staffon's remarkable performance set a new record for the class, surpassing his previous mark. The second position was secured by newcomer Ronald Oates, who lifted 265.91 kg. (585 lbs.) and earned 34.16 GL points.
Darren Thomas was declared the champion of the 120 kg. weight class after lifting an impressive 245.45 kg. (540 lbs.) and earning 29.02 GL points. This weight class previously had a record of 278.9 kg. (615 lbs.) held by Johnwayne Goulbourne since 2022, which remained unbeaten. The defending champion, Desmond Thompson, set a new record in the 120 kg+ weight class by lifting an impressive 322.73 kg. (710 lbs.) and earning 36.21 GL points. This surpassed his record from the previous year. Bruce Higgins secured second place with a lift of 295.45 kg. (650 lbs.), while Sashane Tomlinson finished third with 256.82 kg. (565 lbs.).
Mr. Michael Blair, the President of NPAJ, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all those who had contributed to making this championship a monumental achievement.
"This event was a culmination of countless hours of dedication and hard work," said Mr. Blair during an exclusive interview with Powerlifting Voice.
"Not only from our remarkable athletes but also from the dedicated NPAJ officials who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. Their unwavering commitment and passion for the sport were instrumental in making this championship a reality."
Overcoming obstacles: Roxroy Campbell's journey to retain his deadlift title
The energy was palpable as the National Powerlifting Association of Jamaica Limited (NPAJ) National Deadlift Championship 2023, sponsored by GraceKennedy Money Services, unfolded on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at the Fit Farm Fitness Center.
The championship showcased some of Jamaica's most formidable powerlifters, but one name shone brighter than the rest - Roxroy Campbell.
Campbell, the reigning NPAJ Male Deadlift Champion for 2022, once again proved his mettle, defending his title with sheer determination and raw power. His lifts were nothing short of remarkable, displaying strength that left the audience in awe.
His first lift was an astounding 286.36 kg (630 lbs.), setting the stage for an unforgettable competition. With the crowd's support ringing in his ears, he continued to rise to the challenge. His second lift was a colossal 295.45 kg (650 lbs.), solidifying his dominance. However, it was his third lift that had everyone holding their breath; though unsuccessful at 309.09 kg (680 lbs.), he earned 39.35 GL Points, showcasing his unrelenting spirit.
The Powerlifting Voice had the privilege of sitting down with Roxroy Campbell, who graciously shared insights into his journey and the championship.
“My training program changed for every powerlifting meet. When it's for a deadlift meet, my coach and I mainly focus on that area. For this deadlift meet, I honestly didn't get the preparation I wanted due to the gym league finals two weeks in advance of this meet," he said.
Campbell also offered insight into hos mental preparation for the challenge ahead.
"My mental state is where my strength really is. My technique is visualizing, or better yet, manifesting that this is mine, that I'm medaling or getting a PR. Also, I know people are cheering for me, and that too puts me in a mental space to stay focused and go hard," he said.
As far as challenges go, Campbell’s were mainly financial.
"We all do face challenges in every aspect of life. My main ones are financial challenges to eat healthily, buy supplements, better yet, gym gear like knee sleeves, etc. That's where my main challenges are. Otherwise, from that, nothing gets to me. I stay focused and ignore the bad energies," Campbell said.
He also outlined some memorable moments from the championships.
"Yeah, I would be lying if I said there wasn't. I mean, this is the deadlift where everybody goes hard. I kind of knew I was going to win my 93kg weight class, but overall was my biggest challenge. As I stated earlier, I wasn't fully prepared; I was a bit tired from the gym league. I really wanted to pull 700 lbs. because I knew I could. But my biggest opponent came from the 105kg class. I wasn't at my best, and I know Steffon also got 700 lbs. in him too. Not getting my third lift, which was 680, put a little fear in me, but we have to settle for what our body can produce on that day. Still grateful for my numbers," he said.
Finally, Campbell sent a message to aspiring powerlifters.
“My advice I would give to aspiring powerlifters is: don't fear anyone, don't hate on anybody, show respect to those that were there before you, even after you. It's okay not to get the results you really wanted on the day of the meets. Also, work hard; the gym is something that is all about hard work and discipline. But do listen to your body when it's telling you how it feels; don't ever ignore that. My future plans are to become the best powerlifter that ever walked this planet, and represent my country at higher levels. But this too really depends on my financial status. I do really want to take this to another level, but money does play a big part in everyday life," he said.
From Britain to Jamaica, Latasha Jackson's inspiring journey to powerlifting glory.
The 2023 National Deadlift Championship held at the Fit Farm Fitness Centre on Saturday, September 23, saw the culmination of months of intense training and dedication from athletes across the nation. One standout competitor, in particular, took the stage and left an indelible mark on the powerlifting world.
Latasha Jackson, hailing from Britain, emerged as a dominant force in the GraceKennedy Money Services sponsored event, captivating the audience and her fellow competitors with her awe-inspiring performance.
Her remarkable journey to this championship event began with a determination to represent Jamaica in a sport she was passionate about. Inspired by the great Sami DePass, whose feats she witnessed at the World Championships in Malta, Latasha decided to take the plunge and participate in her first-ever powerlifting meet in Jamaica, the Deadlift Championship.
Latasha's journey to becoming a member of the NPAJ was a testament to her unwavering resolve. In an interview with The Powerlifting Voice, she revealed, "Even though I come from Britain, I’ve always wanted to represent Jamaica in something I am passionate about, seeing Sami DePass at the World Championships in Malta inspired me to make the first step which was to compete in a meet in Jamaica. The deadlift event happened to take place while I was visiting Jamaica, therefore I entered."
Preparing for a championship at the highest level requires immense dedication and hard work. Latasha's training regimen was rigorous, consisting of four weekly workouts, including two upper body and two lower body sessions. Bench press, deadlift, and squat were staples in her training, with a special focus on deadlifts in the final two weeks leading up to the competition. Nutrition played a crucial role in her preparation, as she ensured she had three protein-rich meals a day to provide the energy needed for her intense workouts.
Staying motivated throughout the process, Latasha emphasized the importance of daily habits and long-term goals, which ultimately reap substantial benefits.
The pivotal moment of the NPAJ National Deadlift Championship 2023 came when Latasha Jackson approached the barbell for her lifts. In her first attempt, she lifted a remarkable 172.73 kg (380 lbs.), setting a formidable foundation for her performance. She continued to shine with her second lift, successfully raising 179.55 kg. (395 lbs.). However, it was in her third and final lift that she left the crowd in sheer awe, confidently hoisting an astounding 190.91 kg. (420 lbs.). Her extraordinary feat earned her a total of 36.34 GL Points, solidifying her position as the NPAJ Female Deadlift Champion for 2023.
When asked about her emotions upon realizing she was the champion, Latasha said, "Pure and utter shock! I only wanted to come to participate and watch other lifters but finding out that I won also was the icing on the cake. I loved watching Tesi Scott and Ayana Duhaney, who are my fellow 84 class athletes. I had seen them on Instagram prior but seeing them lift in person was even more amazing."
In the world of competitive powerlifting, athletes often encounter unique challenges and obstacles. For Latasha, adapting to the local style of weight plates and limited equipment availability were hurdles she had to overcome. She explained, "Coming to a different country means getting accustomed to the local style. I’m used to working in kilos with 25kg plates, so coming to Jamaica with 45 lbs. plates made calculating the weights more difficult than expected. I had to memorize the sizes of the plates and work out what my warmups, top set, and back downs were prior to going to the gym, normally I’d do it on the fly.
“Additionally, the equipment available sometimes can be limited, not having a hack squat or smith machine, but you can ask personal trainers in the gym for alternative exercises which are just as effective."
Now, as the NPAJ Female Deadlift Champion for 2023, Latasha Jackson has become a role model for aspiring athletes. Her advice to those looking to excel in the sport of deadlifting or powerlifting in general is invaluable. She stressed, "Powerlifting is a long-term sport, so you never have to be ‘good enough’ to compete. Once you start, continue asking questions and increasing your knowledge so that you understand how your body works in order to progress both inside and outside the gym. This enables you to increase your self-confidence.
“I’ve only competed for a little over a year and I have to thank my coach Christian (@christianthecoach) for helping me understand the mindset it takes to be a champion."
Irie Gunners emerge as Champions of the 2023 NPAJ GraceKennedy Powerlifting Gym League
In the heart of Manchester, the Fusion Gym in Mandeville was buzzing with excitement on Saturday, September 9th, 2023.
Powerlifting enthusiasts from across Jamaica had gathered for the NPAJ/GraceKennedy Money Services Powerlifting Gym League finals. It was a day filled with passion, strength, and determination, but one team stood above the rest - the Irie Gunners.
The crowd watched in awe as the athletes from Team Fit Farm in St. Andrew and Irie Gunners from Manchester gave their all on the platform. The atmosphere was electric, and the anticipation was palpable. It was evident that this year's championship would be fiercely contested.
As the competition progressed, it became clear that the Irie Gunners were on a mission. They started the season as favorites, and they were determined to live up to the expectations. Their dedication to training and their unwavering focus had set them on a path to glory.
The highlight of the event came when the Irie duo of Roxroy Campbell and Aiesha Denton took centre stage. Roxroy Campbell showcased his incredible strength in the squat, bench press, and deadlift, totaling an impressive 703 kilograms. His performance earned him the title of the top male lifter in the competition.
On the female side, Aiesha Denton was an unstoppable force. She demonstrated her prowess in the squat, bench press, and deadlift, amassing a total of 474 kilograms. Aiesha's performance secured her the title of the top female lifter of the competition.
But the victory was not solely attributed to them. The entire Irie Gunners team showed exceptional teamwork and determination. Tashian Wallace, Nadesha Thompson, and Roxroy Campbell all contributed significantly to the team's success, accumulating points that would ultimately tip the scales in their favor.
When the dust settled and the final scores were tallied, it was official - Irie Gunners from Manchester had been crowned the Champion of the NPAJ/GraceKennedy Money Services Powerlifting Gym League for 2023. The Fusion Gym erupted in cheers as the Irie Gunners celebrated their well-deserved victory.
Irie Gunners had scored a total of 249 GL Points, showcasing their dominance throughout the season. Team Fit Farm, the runner-up, put up a valiant effort, amassing 220.80 GL Points. The competition had been intense, but Irie Gunners had proven themselves as the top powerlifting team in Jamaica.
In the end, the individual performances of each athlete from both teams contributed to the thrilling spectacle of strength and determination. Deidre Lewis, Fiona Binns, Jonhio Vaughn, and Desmond Thompson from Team Fit Farm had all showcased their incredible abilities, pushing their limits to achieve greatness.
In an interview with Powerlifting Voice, Mr. Zacariah Thompson, the head coach of the Irie Gunners Gym, shed light on the key moments and strategies that led to their victory in the NPAJ GraceKennedy Money Services Powerlifting Gym League 2023 Championship. According to Coach Thompson, a pivotal moment in the competition was when Aiesha successfully executed a 405-pound squat, a feat that signaled their imminent victory. He emphasized the significance of their rigorous training regimen, highlighting the exceptional dedication of each team member as a crucial factor in their triumph.
Coach Thompson also discussed their unique training approach in preparation for the championship. Instead of following their traditional routine, they began by assessing each athlete's strength and focusing on their core area, a method that seemed to pay off. When addressing the mental aspect of powerlifting, Coach Thompson emphasized the importance of instilling self-belief in his athletes, motivating them to realize their potential and strive for greatness.
When asked about standout performances, Coach Thompson commended all the team members for their outstanding efforts, with a special mention of the female athletes who achieved personal records. He also praised Dane's (Roxroy) consistent improvement in every competition.
Looking ahead, Coach Thompson expressed his determination to maintain and enhance the team's success.
Roxroy Campbell, who was named the top male athlete in the NPAJ Powerlifting Gym League 2023 Final, talked about his journey to success. Campbell mentioned a crucial moment during the competition - his second squat attempt - which he believes was a significant contributor to his victory.
Campbell credited his mental discipline for keeping him focused and motivated. He drew inspiration from those around him and his coach.
Aiesha Denton, who was crowned the top female athlete at the NPAJ Powerlifting Gym League 2023 Final, expressed elation when asked about her feelings regarding the prestigious title.
Ms. Denton credited her achievement to her unyielding commitment and diligent efforts, highlighting the crucial aspects of steadfastness, concentration, and determination that drove her to succeed. She admitted encountering challenges during the competition, particularly about squat depth and bench press strength, but her determination enabled her to overcome these obstacles.
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