Roman Reyes Jr successfully records a deadlift of 275kg/606lb at the 2023 USA Powerlifting Holiday Hoist in Meridian, Idaho on Dec. 16.
ROMAN Reyes Jr., a Saipan-born powerlifter, topped the 100kg junior champion division and broke his own state record at the 2023 USA Powerlifting Holiday Hoist in Meridian, Idaho on Dec. 16, 2023.
The 23-year-old online powerlifting coach and in-person training and nutritionist for Volition Fitness recorded a deadlift of 275kg/606lb and broke his own state record with a new squat lift of 272.5kg/600lb.
Overall, Reyes placed fifth among 71 lifters.
Preparation was the key to Reyes’s achievement as he had trained 12 months prior to the event. “The goal was to shatter this record with ease,” he said. “Being able to do that during this last competition, I know that I am capable of so much more.”
However, he said after his second deadlift attempt of 275kgs/606lbs, “I completely tore the skin on my hand, causing it to bleed. I fought the pain and attempted to pull 290kgs/640lbs but, unfortunately, my hand ended up tearing even more and it slipped right as I got it to my knees.”
After breaking his own state record, Reyes is now aiming to do well in the nationals in Salt Lake City, Utah. “I want to be among the top five strongest juniors in the nation,” Reyes added.
He thanked his significant other, Mercedes Deleon Guerrero, for the endless love and support; one of his best friends, Justin A., for trusting in his vision and competing alongside him; and his parents, Roman V. and Francisca M. Reyes, for reminding him where he came from — “my true roots as a son of the CNMI representing the islands at a very competitive level.”
Roman Reyes Jr. prepares for the squat portion of the 2023 USA Powerlifting Holiday Hoist in Meridian, Idaho on Dec. 16.
