ARP, Texas (KLTV) – Arp’s Presley Johnson won the Class 3A state powerlifting championship last week.
Johnson’s 105-pound frame lifted a total of 740 pounds. Arp football coach Wes Schminkey suggested she take up the sport.
“Coach Schminkey suggested that I did it, but I always worked out with my dad so it was a good way to make me feel big because I’m short. So when I get on the platform, I feel like a giant,” Johnson said.
Johnson set a bench press record with a lift of 205 pounds. The state championship is the first for Arp since 2011.
“I worked my way to first place. I learned a lot throughout the years, I learned a lot about how important my nutrition is,” Johnson said.
“She set a very high bar for herself a couple years ago and she put in a lot of work during the off-season and throughout the season to get where she wanted to get to. I can’t, words can express how happy I am for her,” said Robby Grandgeorge, Arp powerlifting coach.
Johnson’s father, also her workout partner, hugged her after her win.
“The first person I ran to was my dad, because he’s been such a big part of my journey. And then my coaches too, Grandgeorge has been here for three of my years. He’s just been an amazing supporter. He knows how to handle my emotions at the meets,” Johnson said.
Copyright 2026 KLTV. All rights reserved.
