The Bermuda Powerlifting Association [BPA] raised more than $1,100 for the Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre at its Press for the Chest charity event during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Eighteen lifters aged 16 to over 60 competed at the event, held at the TN Tatum Athletics Gym [Made Movement].
Liza Kolesnik-Maypa, the BPA treasurer, said 50 per cent of the proceeds were donated to the charity.
“We had a great turnout of men, women, as well as some new lifters to the platform, which was great to see,” Kolesnik-Maypa told Bernews.
“It was encouraging to see so many women come out maybe because of the cause.
“It was a first charity event and we’re proud to have raised some money.
“A lot of us have been affected by breast cancer in one way or another, so it was nice to give back to the community and represent the cause.”
Kolesnik-Maypa said the event attracted competitors from a range of backgrounds and that the association hoped to reach more gyms across the island.
“We had competitors across all genders, ages and walks of life – we’re very proud of that,” she said.
“We’re trying to branch out to gyms across the island and raise awareness of the BPA.”
Chris Maypa took first place in the men’s division, followed by Nathan Figureido in second and San’j Dill in third.
Shakila Burrows won the women’s division, with Kolesnik-Maypa second and Swami Warren third.
The BPA’s next event will be The Last Pull at LifeThyme Fitness on November 28.
“This event is the crowd favourite and we’re hoping for another good turnout,” she added.
- Photographs courtesy of Mark Taylor