18 compete for bench press championship Published April 15, 2008 By Airman Josh Harbin 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs COLUMBUS AFB, Miss. -- The fitness center held its semi-annual bench press competition April 7. There were 18 competitors divided into eight men's weight classes and one women's weight class. The overall lifter in the male weight class with a maximum lift of 435 lbs. was William Luciano, 14th Medical Operations Squadron. Representing the women's weight class was Natalie Shovelain of the 14th Force Support Squadron. Also, the fitness center has established an incentive program called "The 300 Pound Club." Those who qualify will have their pictures posted in the weight room along with their name and maximum lift weight. In order to enroll in the program, prospective members must be able to lift a minimum of 300 lbs. at one of the semi-annual bench press competitions hosted by the Fitness Center. However, if one may lift at least twice their body weight, they can qualify for membership assuming it is less than 300 lbs. Additionally, women who can bench press 135 lbs. or more may qualify as well. The next bench press competition is scheduled to be held within the next six months. All those interested are encouraged to participate. (Editor's Note: Information for this article was submitted by Andrew Pace of the 14th FSS.)
