On December 12, 1982, Dan Wohleber broke the 900-lb deadlift barrier at a meet in Sandusky, Ohio. On November 4, 2006, at the WPO semi finals in Lake George, New York, Andy Bolton of England broke another barrier by deadlifting 1003 lbs. This is one of the most historic moments in the sport of powerlifting.
On March 5, 2009, at the BPC South East Championships in Eton, England, Bolton made history again with a 1008-lb deadlift. The background of this personal record is a lesson in tenacity and courage.
In March 2007, at the WPO finals, Bolton unsuccessfully attempted to increase his 1003-lb world record to 1008 lbs.
In July 2007, at the BPC British Championships, Bolton nearly locked out 1014 lbs.
At the BPC British Championships in July 2008, Bolton missed 1004 lbs toward lockout again.
At the WPC Worlds in November 2008, he missed 1005 lbs.
Given such a series of failed attempts, another lifter might have given up. “After four times, maybe it’s just not meant to be,” one could say. Andy Bolton didn’t give up.
With astounding strength, brilliant technique, and a champion’s will, Andy Bolton returned to the platform and showed us who he always was. And looking at the speed of the 1008-lb deadlift, he’s not finished.
Some people might not be impressed by a five-pound improvement. Those who have strained, bled, and triumphed in this glorious sport know the truth—five pounds is worth its weight in gold.