Photo courtesy of M.R. STAX Trophies for first, second and third place wait to be awarded.

LEWISTOWN — One by one the powerlifters attempt to bench press the weighted barbell as the crowd sits around them watching with baited breath.

As the weights get heavier, the field of competitors grows smaller and smaller. Eventually there is one winner, who gets a rousing ovation from the onlookers. There are high-fives and jubilant exchanges.

The real winner today is the sport of powerlifting, which has garnered the attention of the raucous crowd. A 45-minute highlight reel on social media provides some insight into the popularity that power lifting once had in the Juniata River Valley, and shows the dedication of those competing in the first Bob Bradshaw Memorial Push/Pull Meet on March 16, 2019 at the Lewistown fitness center.

The second event was held a year later in 2020 before the pandemic derailed any sequels.

Five years later, M.R. Stax Gym Manager Lindsey Zeuschel hopes to rekindle interest in powerlifting with the third annual push/pull meet to be held at M.R. Stax, located at 233 E. Third St., Lewistown.

“I think the interest in powerlifting has decreased a little bit,” Zeuschel said. “I think people are trying to keep it going.

“We (have) some lifters coming from other gyms,” Zeuschel added.

The entry fee is $40 per lifter, which includes a shirt. The cost is $30 for a bench and deadlift only.

Lifting is slated for 10 a.m. today, while weigh-ins started Friday night and continued from 6 to 9 a.m. today. A rules session is set for 9 a.m. today.

Raw lifters only. Wrist wraps, belt and singlet or form-fitting shorts are permitted.

“This is my first one with the gym, since I joined in 2023,” Zeuschel said. “We’re anticipating a good crowd. We have 11 pre-registered, but I think a lot of people will sign on the day of the meet.”

One way to restore the glory is to honor those who have made an impact, which is what will happen today as lifters Chip Aumiller and Justin McCalips will be honored.

“Two amazing guys who shared a love for powerlifting and were taken far too soon,” a press release about the event said. “Even if you do not want to participate as a lifter, we would love for you to come out and support the athletes. We anticipate some big numbers being put on the bar. Let’s keep powerlifting alive in Mifflin County and honor some great men who enjoyed the sport.”

Awards will be presented in each division for men, women, youth (under age 18) and seniors (age 55-plus).

Zeuschel believes the necessary commitment to powerlifting is one of its drawbacks, too. It’s also why those who do commit don’t always stick around. The mental and physical demands can be grueling at times.

“A lot of people realize how hard it is on your body,” Zeuschel explained. “Getting newer people involved with it is important to keep it alive.”

For more information, call the gym at (717) 953-2810. To register, visit www.mrstaxfitness.com.