Members of 14 Wing Greenwood’s Bar Benders attended the April 6 Bridgewater Novice Open powerlifting meet at 902 Athletics, putting in a collective winning performance.
This annual meet is held for people who have not yet competed in an International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) sanctioned event. Greenwood athletes have competed before, but in alternative federations, such as 100% Raw sanctioned and Canadian Armed Forces’ regional events.
14 Mission Support Squadron’s Corporal Mathew Villeneuve competed at 96.68kg bodyweight and completed a 132.5kg squat, a 117.5kg bench press, with an attempt at 122.5kg; and a 182.5kg deadlift, resulting in a total of 432.5kg to win silver in his weight and age category.
404 (Long Range Patrol and Training) Squadron Chief Warrant Officer Jean Plamondon competed at 79.11kg bodyweight and completed a 152.5kg squat, 85kg bench Press, and 155kg Deadlift with an attempt at 160kg. resulting in a total of 392.5kg, winning gold in his weight and age category)
Master Corporal Sarah Landry, also with 404 Squadron, competed at 64.11kg bodyweight and completed a 115kg squat, with an attempt at 117.5kg; a 57.5kg bench press and a 150kg deadlift; resulting in a total of 322.5kg to win gold in her weight and age category.
Last but not least, Corporal Logan Cardarelli, 14 MSS, competed at 76.7kg bodyweight and completed a 162.5kg squat, a 110kg bench press and a 210kg deadlift, resulting in a 482.5kg total – and notably hitting 9/9 of his competition lifts to win silver in his weight and age category.
This meet was a success, as everyone from the CAF Bar Benders Powerlifting Team came home with medals, personal bests – and fuel to do better in their next meet.
“I could not be more proud of my athletes and the success and determination that they have found within themselves,” says Personnel Support Program staff member and team coach Mackenzie Beattie. “They’ve earned their spot on the podium without a doubt.”
The Bar Benders are constantly taking in new members: the team meets Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. at the 14 Wing Greenwood Fitness and Sports Centre if anyone wants to try their hand at being their strongest self. Committed team members, including the April 6 Bridgewater Novice Open competitors, can take advantage of a team sponsorship with AVANCUS, which includes powerlifting shoes, and a wider military/ CFOne card holder discount.
For more information on learning or returning to the sport, and how to join in the Bar Benders’ training, contact Beattie (mackenzie.beattie@forces.gc.ca).
“This sport is inclusive for all bodyweights, ages and athletic ability – and not to mention, who doesn’t want to be strong?” Beattie asks.
14 Wing Greenwood powerlifting competitors – the Bar Benders – at the recent Bridgewater Novice Open included, from left, standing, Corporal Mathew Villeneuve, Chief Warrant Officer Jean Plamondon, Master Corporal Sarah Landry and Corporal Logan Cardarelli. Across the front are team coaches/ handlers Sergeant Brian George, Corporal David Szasz and Mackenzie Beattie.
