Skip to content

Local powerlifters win gold at North American Championships

Jennifer McConnell and Rob Truchon won gold in Panama
20191030 bench press jennifer
Jennifer McConnell on the podium with her gold medal. Photo supplied.

A pair North Bay athletes travelled to Panama City, Panama and captured gold.

Jennifer McConnell and Rob Truchon travelled to Central America last weekend to compete in the Bench Press North American Championships

McConnell competed in the 57kg Open (age 23-39) division, winning the North American title for Team Canada at her first international contest. She secured her position for gold after her first successful lift of 70kg. She came back from a technical error on her second lift, to finish the day with 77.5kg on her third attempt. This lift was 1.4 times her bodyweight. 

She finished off the session lifting the most weight in the flight of 14 lifters and had a substantial 17.5kg lead on her next closest competitor in the same weight class from Costa Rica.

“I was beyond grateful to have the opportunity to not only compete for my Country but to bring back a gold medal," said McConnell.

“I was so proud to stand at the top of the podium and hear our National Anthem. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. I’d like to thank all of my friends who helped me fundraise to attend this event, and my sponsors Pinkyswear Studios and Body Back in Motion.”

Truchon won gold in the Men’s 93kg Master 2 category. His best lifts were 102.5kg and 112.5kg. Truchon has been competing in the sport for over 30 years, representing Team Canada all over the world.

McConnell will travel to Bowmanville this weekend to compete at Provincial Championships in two separate events- Bench Press Only and the 3-lift which consists of squat, bench and deadlift, as a qualifying meet for National Championships in Winnipeg in March 2020.