Abbotsford’s Gabriel Gomez is ready to lift.
The 22-year-old has been chosen for this year’s Canadian Powerlifting Team in the juniors category, 105 kilograms weight class, at the Commonwealth Powerlifting and Bench press Championships at the Richmond Olympic Oval from Dec. 1 to 5.
Powerlifting for only two and a half years, Gabriel will be looking to increase his personal best in squat 539 pounds, bench 363 pounds and deadlift 583 pounds. Gabriel currently holds junior lift records in B.C.
Over 525 lifters from more than 15 Commonwealth countries are registered to attend. The event is the largest representation of the sport Canada has ever seen. Canada is expected to have their largest international team in history with over 100 competitors.
Athletes range in age from sub-junior (14 to 18 years) through to masters IV (70 years and over) Spectators are welcome, and entry to the event is by donation with proceeds supporting the British Columbia Powerlifting Association’s work in furthering the sport in BC.
Over 550 athletes from 15 nations are expected to compete at the event.
For more information on the event, visit commonwealthpowerlifting.com.