SkellaFit Powerlifting Team Shines at World Championships
Courtesy photo
SkellaFit members Cristi Johnson, Elle Bee, Laura Lewis, Karen Grochowski, Tina Robbins, Katie Jones, and Krista Hempel proudly pose for a photo after setting multiple world records at a recent event.
A Powerlifting Triumph in Durban
In an inspiring display of strength and determination, the SkellaFit Powerlifting Team is creating a significant impact on the international stage at the World Powerlifting Congress (WPC) World Championships in Durban, South Africa. Throughout the competition, the team has not only achieved numerous first-place finishes but has also set multiple world records, proudly showcasing their dedication while representing both Alpena and Team USA.
Individual and Team Achievements
The week kicked off with notable performances by Tina Robbins and Cristi Johnson. Each athlete secured first place in their respective divisions: Robbins in the Women’s Raw Full Power Masters 3 category and Johnson in the Women’s Raw Full Power Masters 2 category. Robbins particularly outdid herself, setting an astonishing four new world records in the squat, bench press, and deadlift for the Women’s Raw Masters 3 category. Not stopping there, she broke the World Record in the Bench Press Only category the following Friday.
Krista Hempel also stole the spotlight, adding to the team’s success by securing a world record in the Women’s Raw Bench Press Masters 4 Category. With four out of the five lifters competing triumphantly in the Bench Press Only division, the team showcased its potential. Katie Jones made a commendable mark too, coming in second in the Women’s 90-kilo class.
A Culmination of Hard Work
“The dedication and strength these athletes have shown is extraordinary,” expressed Cristi Johnson, the founder of SkellaFit and competitor in the Masters 2 division. “To see them achieve this level of success on the world stage is incredibly rewarding. Representing Alpena and showing what strong women can accomplish together will stay with me forever.”
The competitive spirit continued on Saturday as Elle Bee clinched first place in the Women’s Classic Raw Full Power division. The next day, the momentum didn’t cease; Katie Jones, Krista Hempel, Laura Lewis, and Karen Grochowski all achieved first place finishes in their divisions during the Women’s Deadlift Only competition.
A Proud Representation of Team USA
Out of over 400 lifters at the WPC World Championships, 15 athletes wore the Team USA insignia, including seven female lifters hailing from Alpena, Michigan, all part of the SkellaFit Powerlifting Team. The event is renowned for showcasing elite powerlifters from various nations, embodying the pinnacle of strength, discipline, and sportsmanship.
Tina Robbins reflected on the experience, describing it as both humbling and empowering. “Today went better than I expected. I’m incredibly excited and thankful to my coaches—Cristi, Rick, Meag, and my whole team—for their unwavering support. I wouldn’t have made it without them.”
Celebrating Strong Women and Community
The WPC World Championships serve as a platform for elite athletes, and this year was no different. After the closing ceremonies, the SkellaFit USA Powerlifters and their supporters came together for a group photo, holding a sign that read “Alpena, this was ALL for you!” This moment reflected not just their individual accomplishments but also their commitment to their community.
For anyone interested in following the journey of the SkellaFit Powerlifting Team or discovering more about its athletes, visit SkellaFit.com or reach out to Cristi Johnson at coachskella@gmail.com. Their story is a testament to teamwork, perseverance, and the power of community support in achieving greatness in the world of sports.