Wellington and Central Powerlifting Association Regional Bench Press Championships 2021, The Platform Gym, Papaioea

Dropped a few KG from water weight, and weighed in at 119.2kg to compete in the M1 under 120kg class.

The bench meet was run inside of the three lift, so I had a long wait between weigh in and competition.  messed around, rehydrated and ate a little bit.

Started warmup early, banded work, then pulldowns, and then onto bench.

A bunch on the bar for a few sets, 60kg for a few sets, 100kg for two singles, 140kg, and then 160kg as my last warmup.

Opener: 175kg - three whites

Second: 185kg - three whites, ok lift

Third: 190kg - no lift.  Didn't lock out.

For a few things to improve.

1.  Just not setting up correctly on the competition day.

2.  I don't think the really light training week works for peaking

3.  I need some more lockout work, triceps.  

I contemplate moving my grip back in slightly.  As most of the biggest benchers in the world operate under a fairly close grip.

At least untested.

Julius Maddox - holder of the worlds biggest bench press, 355kg.  Is the size of a small truck, but still benches with what looks like his ring finger, on the ring.  

John Haack - all around Captain America, benching over 260kg at 90kg.  Longish arms too, but benching with little finger on the rings.

Dan Bell - world record holder, benching 275kg and has his ring finger, on the rings.

Alternatively Thomas Davis benches 320kg + and has his index finger on the ring.

Pun Teofilo - NZs best bench only lifter, does a slightly narrower grip

Richy George - NZs second best bench only lifter, who is in my class, benches quite narrow as well.

Worth a go.