Whidbey Island’s Sherry Phay finished second at the United States Powerlifting Association Drug Tested National Tournament July 11-14 in Las Vegas.

In addition to placing second in her age and weight division (Masters 45-49 at 90kg), Phay set a new state record in the bench press (72.5/80/85kg).

“After having to withdraw from nationals last year due to a torn hamstring and weeks of recovery, I was pretty determined to make it back,” Phay said. “It was a successful weekend.”

Phay completed eight of her nine lifts.

“(I missed) my second back squat attempt due to lack of depth but made the lift at the same weight for my third lift,” she said.

She posted scores of 117.5 and 120kg in the back squat; 72.5, 80 and 85kg in the bench press; and 137.5, 142.5 and 147.5kg in the deadlift.

The competition featured more than 100 lifters. Phay earned a spot in the national tournament at a local qualifying match in December.

Phay primarily trains at Greenbank Strength and Performance and Obsidian Barbell in Oak Harbor.

Sherry Phay competes in the dead lift at the national tournament last weekend. (Photo by Sofia Phay)