Jen Thompson has once again proven why she is regarded as one of the most formidable powerlifters in the sport. At the 2023 USAPL Raw Nationals held in Tennessee, Thompson wowed the audience by setting a new Raw Drug-Tested All-Time World Record in the 67.5-kilogram weight class.
A Record-breaking Feat
Amidst palpable anticipation, Thompson successfully bench pressed an impressive 146.5 kilograms (323 pounds). This surpassed her own previous record set just a year prior by a small, yet significant margin. Her approach to the lift was methodical: after setting herself on the bench, she swiftly lowered the weight to her chest and, after a tense moment, locked out a record-breaking lift.
Previous Benchmarks
The previous benchmark in the Raw Bench Press, also held by Thompson, was 146 kilograms (321.9 pounds), set at the 2022 USAPL Carolina Primetime.
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Performance Overview
Thompson, competing well below her weight class at 64.87 kilograms (143 pounds), showcased her unparalleled prowess especially in the bench press, flawlessly executing all three attempts. In contrast, her efforts in the squat and deadlift segments faced some challenges, with a total of four unsuccessful attempts.
- Squat Attempts:
- Successful at 142.5 kilograms (314.2 pounds)
- Two unsuccessful attempts at 160 kilograms (352.7 pounds)
- Bench Press Sequence:
- Lifted 127.5 kilograms (281.1 pounds)
- Progressed to 142.5 kilograms (314.2 pounds)
- Record-breaking lift of 146.5 kilograms (323 pounds)
- Deadlift:
- Initial successful lift of 165 kilograms (363.8 pounds)
- Two unsuccessful attempts at 190 kilograms (418.9 pounds)
Her cumulative efforts resulted in a total of 454 kilograms (1,000.9 pounds) at the competition.
A Hall of Fame Induction
In recognition of her consistent contributions and unmatched accomplishments in the sport, Thompson was inducted into the USAPL Masters Hall of Fame — a worthy acknowledgment for a powerlifter who has been on top of her game for over two decades.
Jen Thompson: A Chronicle of Championships and Records
Jen Thompson’s ascent in the world of powerlifting is evidenced by her consistent trajectory of achievements. Over her illustrious career, Thompson has not only showcased sheer strength but also an undying spirit to better herself with each competition.
Snapshot of Success: Equip and Personal Bests:
- Raw:
- Squat: 352.7 lbs
- Bench: 327.4 lbs
- Deadlift: 352.7 lbs
- Total: 1,126.6 lbs
- Dots: 546.89
- Single-ply:
- Squat: 402.3 lbs
- Bench: 330.7 lbs
- Deadlift: 402.3 lbs
- Total: 1,151.9 lbs
- Dots: 581.05
Historical Highlights from Competitions:
- 2023:
- Arnold Pro Series Bench Finals (USAPL): Secured 1st position with a total weight of 303.1 lbs.
- Arnold Pro Series Finals (USAPL): Finished 4th with a commendable total of 1,094.6 lbs.
- 2022:
- Carolina Primetime (USAPL): Triumphed with 1st position, recording a total weight of 1,126.6 lbs.
- UBU Dallas Expo (USAPL): Double victory in the FR-PRO category, both in Bench and Total.
- Mega Nationals (USAPL): Dominated by securing 1st position in both FR-O and FR-M1 categories.
- 2021:
- Virginia Pro (USAPL): Achieved 1st position with a total weight of 1,025.1 lbs.
- Raw Nationals (USAPL): Successfully secured 2nd place in the FR-O category and triumphed in the Equipped Bench Nationals.
The above is merely a snapshot of Thompson’s outstanding achievements. Her dedicated participation, frequent top finishes, and ability to set records, as archived by Open Powerlifting till August 17, 2023, underscore her dedication to the sport. Thompson’s story is one of dedication, commitment, and an insatiable appetite for victory. Her competition history stands as a testament to her prowess and the indelible mark she has made in the world of powerlifting.
A Legacy of Triumphs
A glance at Thompson’s competitive journey reveals a powerhouse athlete who has been a force to be reckoned with. From her participation in the Arnold Pro Series Bench Finals to state championships and national competitions, Thompson’s career is dotted with gold finishes and record-setting performances.
Looking Ahead
The future seems promising for this powerlifting icon. After over 130 sanctioned competitions and with a new world record to her name, Thompson shows no signs of slowing down. As recent events have showcased, she remains committed to pushing her limits and setting new benchmarks in the world of powerlifting.
Overview
Jen Thompson, a powerlifting legend, claimed a new Raw Drug-Tested All-Time World Record in the 67.5-kilogram weight class at the 2023 USAPL Raw Nationals. Her exceptional bench press of 146.5 kilograms (323 pounds) showcased her prowess, surpassing her own record set just a year earlier. Thompson’s remarkable achievements and induction into the USAPL Masters Hall of Fame highlight her enduring dedication to powerlifting, spanning over two decades.
Featured Image @usapowerlifting (Instagram)
