Donivan Mendiola is preparing for the Strongest Man Deadlift competition, which will be held at the K-16 Seoul Air Base on May 25.
DONIVAN Mendiola, who is aiming to add another trophy to his collection, is preparing for the Strongest Man Deadlift competition at K-16 Seoul Air Base on May 25.
Last year, Mendiola emerged as the overall champion as he squatted 460lbs, with a bench of 320lbs, and deadlift of 550lbs for a total weight of 1,330lbs in the 1,000lb championship for Area 2 of the Yongsan/K16-Casey Garrison.
This year he shed some weight and will see action in the 90kg weight and overall categories. “This meet is different from the others because it’s the overall weight lifted for deadlift alone. By weight classes. I will be competing in the 90kg category and overall,” Mendiola said.
The NMI-born athlete hopes to repeat last year’s results. “I want to come out on top and be the best I can be — hopefully, to set a new [personal record]. It’s my first time competing in the 90kg category as well. I’m usually in the 100kg category,” he said.
To win another title, Mendiola has been training for his new weight class since the beginning of the year.
He said he expects “to win the category and the overall as well. I’m just training and letting God be my strength when the time comes down to it.”
As for his military career, Mendiola was promoted to the rank of E6 staff sergeant in October 2023 and was selected for the Green to Gold Active Duty Option program in December 2023. The program allows eligible active duty enlisted soldiers to earn a baccalaureate or graduate degree while simultaneously earning an Army officer commission.
Mendiola will attend Alabama A&M University where he will major in Political Science with a minor in International Studies.
In addition, Mendiola will try out for the NMI track & field team in the discus, hammer throw and shotput events.
