Top powerlifters from across the country will gather in Prince Edward Island March 29 to April 2 for the 2011 National Powerlifting and Bench Press Championships. The province is pleased to provide a Sport Hosting Grant to assist the PEI Powerlifting Association as they prepare for these championships, said Health and Wellness Minister Carolyn Bertram.
“With over 300 athletes coming to the Island plus spectators, these championships will have a tremendous economic impact on the capital region and Islanders will be able to see the best powerlifters our country has to offer,” said Minister Bertram. “Our Department of Health and Wellness is pleased to provide a $3,500 Sport Hosting Grant to the PEI Powerlifting Association and we wish our provincial competitors all the best at they prepare to compete in their home province.”
The national championship is the premier sporting event in Canada for powerlifters. It is where the world championship team members are decided.
The sport of powerlifting consists of 3 lifts: The squat, bench press, and deadlift. Placings are determined by a total lift based on the best lift of each of the three lifts combined.
“Powerlifting is a growing sport in Prince Edward Island. We currently have six high schools in the province offering powerlifting programs,” said Tom Nicholls, Vice President of the PEI Powerlifting Association and Meet Director for the 2011 Nationals. “Hosting these national championships will allow our young people to see the highest calibre athletes in their sport and hopefully challenge them to strive for their personal best.”
The 2011 nationals will be a five-day event, running from Tuesday, March 29 to Saturday, April 2, 2011 in the courtyard of the Rodd Royalty Inn. The 2011 nationals will attract close to 300 powerlifters from across Canada, competing in all age categories, both male and female. The title sponsor for this year’s event is Island Excavators.
For more information on the upcoming event, visit www.2011nationals.ca.