Paynesville’s deadlift queen, Kylie Findlay has dominated three National Championships over the past month.
In a feat of strength, resilience and sheer determination, Findlay has cemented her status as one of Australia’s most formidable powerlifters, competing in
three separate National Championships across three different federations, all within a single month.
Findlay kicked off her whirlwind tour at the Global Powerlifting Committee (GPC) Nationals in Brisbane on July 28, entering the Open Women’s 110+ division.
Despite competing in the
Open category, the 56-year-old Findlay was eligible to set Masters records in her age and weight class, and set records she did.
With a flawless performance of nine successful lifts, Findlay shattered four National and World Masters records.
Her efforts included squat (167.5 kilograms), bench press (75 kilograms) and deadlift (190 kilograms).
Her efforts earned her a bronze medal and a place on the podium, but the accolades were just beginning.
Less than a week later, Findlay returned to Brisbane for the CAPO National Titles, where adversity struck early.
During warm-ups, a 140-kilogram barbell accidentally rolled down her back and head, leaving her bruised and shaken, but she refused to back down.
Despite the injury, she broke her own National Deadlift Record, lifting 185 kilograms, which stood as a World Record at the time of the lift.
She attempted a 190kg deadlift, but judges ruled it incomplete due to a missed lockout.
“While I was disappointed with the decision, I was proud that I had managed to lift that weight after the earlier accident,” Findlay said.
She finished the day with the highest score in her age and weight category, proving that grit often outweighs circumstance.
Last weekend, Kylie wrapped up her triple-title campaign at the Australian Powerlifting League (APL) Nationals at
the Melbourne Convention Centre.
Most lifters qualify for just one national event per year, but Findlay, driven by her love of lifting, took on all three, each with its own unique rulebook.
She once again broke her own National Deadlift Record, pulling 185 kilograms on her second attempt.
For her final lift, Findlay went all in, attempting a 195kg deadlift, a bold move after a month of relentless competition.
Though she couldn’t complete the lift, she still won the Masters 50–55 years, 110+ division, and placed third in the Open category.
Findlay won’t be resting on her laurels, having her sights set on upcoming events including
the Police and Emergency Services Games and the GPC Masters Championships later this year.
She’s also diversifying her training, adding CrossFit to her regimen with the goal of competing in a DEKA Strength event in January.
From record-breaking lifts to overcoming injury, Kylie’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and commitment to training.
