LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) – More than 130 participants competed in the Cornhusker State Games powerlifting competition at Lincoln Southeast on Saturday.
Among those participants was Phillip Ward, an 80-year-old powerlifter and Waterloo, Nebraska native. At the CSG, his bench press of 176 lbs. (80 kg) set a state record for his age group and weight class.
“I never give it a lot of thought,” Ward said. “I’m just trying to always do better.”
Ward has accumulated many state records along his powerlifting journey, as he has often been the first competitor in his age and weight class. His state record bench press is also an unofficial world record.
“When I was lifting I’d go to the doctor, and he said ‘Why are you doing this at this age?’ I said, ‘Because I can.’ Just find something that works for you, something you enjoy, and stick with it,” Ward said.
Ward didn’t start powerlifting until he was 65. He said he’s come a long way since.
“When I started, I couldn’t bench press 85 pounds,” Ward said. “You just have to keep at it and set some goals.”
Ward said he is considering attending a world meet in the future. He plans to keep raising the bar.
“I plan on lifting the rest of my life. One thing about old age, you have to keep moving,” Ward said. “You have to do something. You can’t stay healthy sitting on the couch.”
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