Submitted Photo

The World Natural Powerlifting Federation held its New York State powerlifting competition in Rochester this past weekend. Competing in this competition were five local weightlifters. Phil DeFrancisco, Julie Arnold, Juan Cheverez, and Roberto Cheverez all placed first in their respective weight classes, while Jarrid Ringer competed in the deadlift. DeFrancisco and Arnold competed in the full meet consisting of squat, bench press, and deadlift. DeFrancisco set a state record in all three lifts, while Arnold set a state record in the deadlift, with a mark of 255 pounds in the 148-pound division. Both Cheverezs competed in the bench press and currently hold the state record in their respective weight classes. “We were surrounded by like-minded people, and everyone was very encouraging toward all other competitors,” Arnold said. “Even though we were competing against each other, at the end of the day, it is you vs. yourself. That is what makes the sport so special.” She said the competition was “a very humbling experience.” From left in the photo are Arnold, Juan Cheverez, DeFrancisco, Roberto Cheverez and Ringer.