In a contest characterized by fierce competition and audacious displays of strength, Oregon’s own Ashton Rouska emerged triumphant in the 110-kilogram weight class at the 2023 USAPL Raw Nationals. The four-day event was especially electrifying, with the 110-kilogram category drawing particular attention. This was largely due to the high-stakes duel anticipated between two of USAPL’s most formidable contenders: Rouska and Bobb Matthews.
Setting the Stage with World Records
Amid the deafening cheers and palpable tension, Rouska executed a squat of 380.5 kilograms (838.9 pounds). In doing so, using only knee sleeves, a lifting belt, and wrist wraps, he eclipsed Kirk Karwoski’s nearly two-decade-old record by an impressive margin.
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Rouska’s Comprehensive Performance Breakdown
- Squats: Rouska’s squat sequence was the talk of the event
- An initial lift of 335 kg (738.5 lbs)
- A subsequent lift of 371 kg (818.9 lbs)
- A record-breaking 380.5 kg (838.9 lbs), firmly establishing the U110KG All-Time Drug-Tested World Record.
- The Bench Press: The bench press saw Rouska
- Lift 205 kg (451.9 lbs)
- Increase to 215 kg (474 lbs)
- Make an unsuccessful attempt at 220 kg (485 lbs)
“I know for a fact I underperformed here (Bench Press) and I’ll leave it at that.”
- The Deadlift : The deadlift event unfolded as
- An initial lift of 325 kg (716.5 lbs)
- A subsequent lift of 372.5 kg (821.2 lbs)
- An unsuccessful bid at 388.5 kg (856.5 lbs)
“Intent was to pull conventional but my back was in considerable pain after squats, so we opted to pull sumo halfway through warm-ups.”
Summing up his efforts, Rouska achieved a Total World Record of 968 kilograms (2,134.1 pounds), narrowly beating his own previous record.
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Tracing Rouska’s Storied Competitive Journey
Delving into Rouska’s past reveals a series of accolades and achievements that mark his consistent progress in competitive powerlifting. His relentless commitment to the sport is evident from his participation and victories in events ranging from the Arnold Pro Series Finals to myriad state championships. Each competition entry underscores his unwavering pursuit of excellence.
Ashton Rouska: A Journey Through Records and Accolades
Delving deeper into Ashton Rouska’s illustrious career, one discerns a consistent pattern of dedication, grit, and unparalleled skill. His record speaks for itself:
A Timeline of Triumphs:
- 2023:
- Arnold Pro Series Finals (USAPL): With a total weight of 2,117.5 pounds, Rouska secured the 2nd position, achieving a Dots score of 579.61.
- 2022:
- Virginia Pro (USAPL): Achieving 2nd place with a total of 2,061.3 pounds, Rouska displayed his unwavering commitment.
- Korea Summer Classic (USAPL): Earning the gold with a total of 2,088.9 pounds.
- Mega Nationals (USAPL): Another 1st place with a total of 2,039.3 pounds.
- Arnold A7 Grand Prix (USAPL): Rouska’s impeccable form continued, securing the top spot with a total of 2,105.4 pounds.
- 2021:
- Virginia Pro (USAPL): Rouska once again seized the top spot, echoing his triumph with a weight total of 2,105.4 pounds.
- Virginia Pro Qualifier (USAPL): Winning first place with a total of 2,011.7 pounds.
- Raw Nationals (USAPL): Demonstrating his dominance, he clinched the 1st position with a total of 2,079 pounds.
- Virginia Open State Championships (USAPL): Another gold with a weight total of 1,929 pounds.
- Texas Strength Classic (USAPL): Continuing his winning spree, Rouska emerged victorious with a total of 2,067.9 pounds.
- 2020:
- Virginia Winter Wrecker (USAPL): In both the MR-Jr and MR-O categories, Rouska dominated with a total of 2,095.5 pounds.
- Virginia Novice Open 2 (USAPL): Achieving 1st place in both the MR-Jr and MR-O categories with a total of 2,028.3 pounds.
- Arnold Grand Prix by SBD (NAPF): With a total of 1,943.4 pounds, Rouska showcased his prowess.
- 2019:
- Raw Nationals (USAPL): Proving his mettle in both the MR-O and MR-Jr categories, Rouska secured the 1st position in each with a total of 1,955.5 pounds.
- Southern Regionals (USAPL): A double victory with 1,962.1 pounds in both the MR-O and MR-Jr categories.
Future Ambitions and A Gaze Forward
With such a resplendent history, Ashton Rouska’s trajectory in the sport showcases a pattern of relentless pursuit of excellence. While his recent achievements at the 2023 USAPL Raw Nationals have set new benchmarks, Rouska’s sights are set even higher. His goals for the future are as ambitious as his past records, aiming for an audacious total of over 1,000 kilograms (2,204.6 pounds). Given his track record, few would bet against him. The world of powerlifting eagerly awaits his next move.
Challenges Fuel Aspirations
Reflecting on his performance, Rouska was candid about the challenges he faced in what he deemed as the fiercest competition he’s ever encountered. However, for an athlete of Rouska’s caliber, challenges are but stepping stones to greater aspirations. With eyes set on the formidable total of over 1,000 kilograms, Rouska’s journey in powerlifting, it seems, has many more records to set and break. The 2023 USAPL Raw Nationals might be behind him, but the road to unparalleled feats of strength beckons.
Overview
Oregon’s Ashton Rouska clinched victory in the intensely competitive 110-kilogram weight class at the 2023 USAPL Raw Nationals. Overcoming strong competition, notably from Bobb Matthews, Rouska not only won the event but also shattered a nearly two-decade-old squat record previously held by Kirk Karwoski, solidifying his place among the powerlifting elite.
Featured Image @ashhh_117 (Instagram)
