Two members of the Cayman Islands Powerlifting Organisation (CIPO) recently gave a solid showing at the North American Powerlifting Federation (NAPF) and International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) 19^th annual North American Regional Powerlifting Championships held in Panama. President Tony Mc Inerney and recently crowned Cayman Islands Strongman (heavyweight) Jordan McEarlean competed in the 93kg (205lb) open equipped division and the 120kg (265lb) open classic/raw division respectively. 

Mc Inerney earned silver in his weight class, bringing home Cayman’s 36^th powerlifting medal to date since 2009.   

“It has been difficult to prepare and train for competitions over the past couple of years due to COVID-19. Cayman was supposed to host the North American Regional Powerlifting Championships in 2020 which would have been a qualifier for the 2022 World Games but due to travel restrictions here and everywhere else we have missed several opportunities to compete,” said Mc Inerney. “I was excited to get back on the platform and test my strength. I gave it my best shot but had some difficulty in the deadlift challenge which is usually my easiest event. In the end I was extremely proud and happy to bring home a medal for Cayman. Thank you to my wife who accompanied me, Jordan and my fellow competitors from all around the region and North America for cheering me on.”

“The last couple of months have been a whirlwind of excitement. After claiming the Cayman Strongest Man title (heavyweight) in July, I was thrilled to represent the country at this meet,” said McEarlean. “Although I did not crack the top three in the 105-120kg raw/classic weight class this time, this experience has given renewed determination and purpose to my training for the 2023 competition.”

The Cayman Islands will host the NAPF North American Regional Powerlifting Championships in 2023 which is expected to attract between 250 and 275 athletes and their coaches and families from at least 15 countries.  

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Notes:

Powerlifting – a strength sport that consists of three attempts at maximal weight on three lifts: squat, bench press, and deadlift.

Raw/classic powerlifting – supportive equipment such as weightlifting belts, knee wraps, bench press shirts and squat suits cannot be used

Equipped powerlifting – supportive equipment such as weightlifting belts, knee wraps, bench press shirts and squat suits can be used