It was with great sadness that I heard of Gene Rychlak's passing on Friday. His wonderful wife Ame posted that Gene had suffered from a heart condition for some time and Friday morning it took its last beat.
I was fortunate to have known Gene for the better part of two decades. We shared the platform a number of times in the good old multiply bench only heydays. He was an innovator and a great competitor. He was the first to hit 900 and 1,000 lb benches. He also hit a flawless multiply 1,000 lb squat back in the day as well.
Gene leaves behind a legacy much bigger than that of a competitor. He was an amazing judge, meet director, promoter, and advocate for powerlifting. More than lifting Gene championed causes against abuse and animal cruelty. He was bigger than life on many levels.
I really am at a loss for words. The sport has lost a great ambassador and a true legend. Rest in peace my friend.
