The events were: Squat, where Kathy lifted 115 kg; Bench Press where she raised 65 kg; and Deadlift where she heaved 125 kg. Kathy, Life sub-editor, who writes on fitness and food (but not necessarily in that order), won first prize in the Bench Press and Deadlift events. CJ Junterial, her only opponent in the 60-67 kg. weight category, placed first in Squat, having lifted 5 kilos more than Kathy.
Whew!
Other women who participated in the competition included: Yolly Mendigoria, Lindsay Topacio, Nina Oca, Cora Guidote, and the strongest woman in the Philippines, Lily Picante. Lily (who’s in the 82 kg weight category) competed recently in the World Women’s Powerlifting Competition held at the Czech Republic and won a gold medal in the Deadlift event.
This is not Kathy’s first time to compete. She holds the Philippine novice record in the 60 kg category. She did this in 1998 (60 kg in Bench Press, 105 kg in Squat and 130 kg in Deadlift). The record remains unbroken.
In December, Kathy will compete in the Battle of the Champions where the best powerlifters in the country vie for top honors. Only those who participated in Sept. 8’s National Open can qualify for this competition. It is also here where members of the Philippine Powerlifting Team are chosen.
You go, Kathy!