World Champion, Ita Pantilat

And the new world record holder for the bench press in the 47-53 year old under 114 lb category is...ITA PANTILAT! Breaking her old world record of 192.4 lbs, Ita lifted 198.2 lbs. It was an amazing competition. Ita tried to break the 200 barrier with 200.1 on her fourth lift, but with almost no rest between the third and fourth lifts, fatigue took its toll and she came up a little short and was unable to get it all the way up and lock out her elbows. All in all, it was an amazing performance. On top of her world championship title and new world record, Ita also won the title of best lifter in all the Master's Women categories. That title signifies her as the best lifter pound for pound. No surprise since she lifted 198.2 lbs and weighed in at 110 lbs. Once again, I'd like to congratulate Talli's mom, Ita Pantilat on destroying the competition. Not a bad day's work, especially since she's only been training for the bench press for six months. Give her a few months more and she'll crush some more records. Especially since, on Sunday she'll have her birthday and graduate up to the 54-60 age bracket where she'll mow down the competition and put her own stamp on the age bracket with devastating new records. I can't wait to see the next competition! Happy Birthday, Ita and good luck on many more victories and records! I know you won't need the luck though with all the hard work you put in. You're an inspiration to us all.