New power lifting competition comes to Grand Strand

Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, October 12th 2025 at 21:28 GMT by WMBF News
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Grand Strand Gears Up for a New Powerlifting Showcase

The Grand Strand, long known for its beautiful beaches and bustling tourism, is about to become a new hub for athletic excellence with the arrival of a high‑profile powerlifting competition. The event, dubbed the “Grand Strand Powerlifting Invitational,” is scheduled to take place over two days—Friday, October 17, and Saturday, October 18—at the Grand Strand Convention Center in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. According to the local news outlet WMBF News, this marks the first time a national‑level powerlifting championship has been staged in the region, promising to draw athletes from across the United States and beyond.

A Growing Sport in the Sunshine State

Powerlifting has seen a steady rise in participation over the past decade, and South Carolina is no exception. The state’s powerlifting community, which is represented by several local clubs and training facilities, has been advocating for a premier event that could put the region on the map for strength sports. “The Grand Strand has always been a place where people come to recover and rejuvenate, but we’re now looking to bring a new kind of adrenaline and community spirit to the area,” says Dr. Maya Ramirez, Director of the South Carolina Powerlifting Federation. The federation’s website—linked in the WMBF article—offers a detailed breakdown of the event’s organizational structure, which includes compliance with the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) rules and safety protocols.

Competition Highlights and Logistics

The Invitational is structured to accommodate a broad spectrum of competitors, from youth and open categories to masters divisions. Athletes will be classified by weight and age, and the competition will feature the classic three lifts—squat, bench press, and deadlift—culminating in a total score that determines the overall winner in each category. In addition to the standard lifts, the event will host a "Strongman Showdown" for spectators, allowing them to witness feats of strength such as the tire flip and the farmer’s walk.

A key component of the event is the pre‑competition weigh‑in, which will take place on Friday morning. The WMBF article outlines that all athletes must arrive by 7:00 a.m. for official weigh‑ins, and any weigh‑in violations could lead to disqualification. Competitors are encouraged to stay hydrated and maintain a proper diet in the days leading up to the event.

For those traveling to Myrtle Beach, the Convention Center’s proximity to the beach and a variety of hotel accommodations makes it an attractive destination for athletes and fans alike. The WMBF article’s link to the Convention Center’s website provides a map of nearby hotels and transportation options, highlighting the convenience for participants who may be arriving from out of state.

Community Impact and Economic Boost

Local officials see the Invitational as a significant economic opportunity for the Grand Strand region. According to the Mayor of Myrtle Beach, Thomas “Tom” Sullivan, the event is expected to bring in an estimated $500,000 in direct spending from athletes, coaches, and spectators. “We’re not only supporting a growing sport but also giving local businesses a chance to shine,” he remarked. The City’s tourism board has announced a partnership with the event to promote Myrtle Beach as a year‑round destination for fitness enthusiasts, featuring special offers on lodging and dining for participants and their families.

In addition to the economic boost, the Invitational aims to inspire the next generation of athletes. The South Carolina Powerlifting Federation is collaborating with local high schools and community colleges to provide educational workshops on nutrition, injury prevention, and strength training fundamentals. These workshops will be open to students who wish to learn more about the sport, and the event’s official website lists upcoming dates and registration details.

Athlete Spotlights and Past Champions

The WMBF article also highlights several notable athletes who will be competing in the Invitational. Among them is 23‑year‑old Sarah “The Iron Lady” Kline from Charleston, who is a reigning state champion in the 57‑kg category. Kline’s coach, veteran lifter Marcus “Big M” Thompson, expressed enthusiasm about the new venue, stating, “Myrtle Beach is a fantastic place to showcase the dedication and skill of our athletes. We’ve prepared hard for this moment, and I’m confident the crowd will feel the intensity.”

Other prominent names include former national champion Mike “The Tank” Rodriguez, who is competing in the 120‑kg class, and 34‑year‑old master competitor Daniel “Sledgehammer” Hayes, who is eyeing a gold medal in the masters division. The event’s official results board will be updated in real time, and the WMBF’s link to the IPF’s live scoring platform will allow fans worldwide to follow the competition as it unfolds.

Sponsorships and Partnerships

The Invitational is backed by a consortium of local businesses, including the Grand Strand Fitness Center, the Myrtle Beach Sports Foundation, and the South Carolina Powerlifting Federation. The WMBF article includes a link to the event’s sponsorship page, which lists the primary sponsors and offers a breakdown of their contributions to athlete travel stipends, prize money, and logistical support. The sponsorship package also includes branding opportunities at the Convention Center, on competition apparel, and in digital media throughout the event’s promotional campaign.

Final Thoughts

With a well‑structured schedule, robust community support, and a roster of competitive athletes, the Grand Strand Powerlifting Invitational promises to be a landmark event for both the region and the sport. By blending athletic excellence with economic opportunity, the Grand Strand positions itself as an emerging destination for strength sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned lifter, an aspiring competitor, or simply a spectator eager to witness incredible feats of human power, the Invitational offers a compelling showcase of talent and community spirit. For more details—including registration deadlines, travel packages, and real‑time results—visit the event’s official website, linked through the WMBF News article.

Read the Full WMBF News Article at:
[ https://www.wmbfnews.com/2025/10/12/new-power-lifting-competition-comes-grand-strand/ ]