Yes. I realize it has been a while since I have written a blog entry. I have let life's happenings take over and not taken the time to write about them. I need to be better about it.
My husband and I have been training for the Georgia State Powerlifting and Bench Press Championships. We have had four months to train for this competition. For me, training was very successful. The story is a little different for my husband. He has battled sickness and a shoulder injury.
The competition was held on April 9th. When we arrived at the competition, we first checked to see the flight list. As always, they listed me first. This is always scary because the first lift can set the precedent for all following lifters. Thankfully, the press command came quickly. I had intentionally trained with a delay before pressing the weight up. Believe me, it made a difference. I was able to press my first lift with ease. 77 pounds does not sound like much weight but I represents a personal best for me. With this lift, I broke the records I set during the World Competition. At this point, I called the competition a success for myself. I had beaten my own record. I ran over to the announcer's table and recorded my next attempt. 82.5 pounds. Yep, I was going to do it or die. At the conclusion of the first round, it was my turn to start the second round. I ran up on the platform, lay myself down on the bench and look up at my husband. I give him the signal and he lifts the bar off to me. I bring the bar down to my chest and listen for the "press" command. Again, thank goodness, it was quick. I pushed up the weight with not much of a problem. Just a little strain but nonetheless it went up. Again, I broke my records! At this point, no matter what else happened the rest of the day, I was thrilled. I was not able to press my last weight. 88 pounds was just a little more than my arms were ready for, but don't worry, I will get there.
With my last lift, I won the sub-master, 52Kg weight class. This secured a spot at the National Competition in Peoria, Illinois.
My husband's day was a little off, but he was able to win his class as well and secure a spot in the National Competition. Yay! We get to compete together again.
The National Competition is the first weekend of June. It will be here before we know it. We only have seven weeks to train. This is a very fast turn around, especially if you have a goal to set records. I guess, first and foremost, I should concentrate on winning my class again. If we are able win at the National Competition, we will secure a spot in the World Competition in December.
Tonight, I attended a board meeting for our local food pantry that provides food and needed monetary help to many families with children. I am very excited about a new program that will be beginning soon. Many school aged children will be able to have a daily meal during the summer months through Must Ministries. The Southeast Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry will be working with Must Ministries and many local churches to make this a successful program.
After attending the meeting, I came home to find my husband getting our girls ready for bed. He is a wonderful husband to help out when needed and allow me to be involved in worthwhile causes. I love him for it. I don't know if he feels the same when I come home after a meeting or something, but as always, I love it when he comes home and walks through the door.
