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TOMÉ — In front of a standing-room-only crowd Saturday, Valencia hosted Oak Grove Academy in a co-ed powerlifting meet.
“Our kids did well,” said Jose Lopez, VHS coach. “Every one of my athletes hit new (personal records) in at least two of three lifts.”
Valencia has about 35 lifters and for many it was their first competition, including juniors Mckenzie Goar and Keely Farley.
A coach recruited the 100-pound Farley, who told her she had, “a build for a good powerlifter because I’m short and stocky,” Farley recalled.
After “stutter stepping,” Farley joined the team but took some good-natured ribbing from her family.
“They’re like, ‘Oh you’re going to beat up your little brother,’” she said.
Goar is already setting goals, like a trip to the state meet and beyond.
“I’d like to see if this is something I can pursue later,” after high school.
Any surprises?
“Honestly, how strong I am,” said Goar. “I thought I was a weakling.”
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The sport’s strict rules were eye-opening along with the camaraderie.
“Everybody is rooting for you,” said Farley.
