Bench Press Challenge ignites competition on Camp Pendleton

The clanking of racking weights and the roars of service members could be heard outside Camp Pendleton’s 21 Area Fitness Center during the second installment of the 2010 Bench Press Challenge Series, July 30.

Thirty-nine males and four females competed in hopes to be declared the base’s strongest bench presser. Participants included active-duty and retired service members, family members and Department of Defense civilian employees.

During each event of the three-part series, winners are awarded, but during the last contest of all the challenges, there will be an overall award for the man and woman who have accumulated the most points.

The overall winning weight on July 30 was lifted by last year’s champion, Master Sgt. Michael W. Green, maintenance control chief, Helicopter Medium Light Attack Squadron 469, Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton. Green lifted 515 pounds, surpassing his old record of 475 pounds.

“There’s nothing better than a little friendly competition every once in awhile,” said Sgt. Isaac Norales, who lifted 335 pounds.

Points for the challenge are scored using Wilks Coefficient Chart, which uses a formula that evens the playing field by factoring in body-weight and age.

“Every competition, I put up more and more weight,” said Norales. “The series isn’t over yet so the trophy is still up for grabs.”

The last competition of the series is scheduled for Oct. 22 at the 52 Area Fitness Center.

For more information about the bench press challenge or to compete in other base events, call Cari Gordonne at (760)-763-0657.

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