Sami Depass competing in the Deadlift.
Sami Depass, the reigning champion of the National Powerlifting Association of Jamaica (NPAJ), had been eagerly anticipating her first-ever appearance at the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) World Classic Open Powerlifting Championships.
Held in St. Julians, Malta, on June 16, 2023, this prestigious event brought together powerlifters from 65-member nations taking part and over 400 lifters, 37 referees, and 257 other officials, the largest and most diverse participation in any Open Classic World Championship ever.
Competing in the highly competitive female -76kg weight class, Depass faced formidable opponents from around the world. The category initially had 26 entries, but unfortunately, one lifter was unable to participate, reducing the number of contenders to 25.
Placed in Group B along with 16 other talented athletes and Group A consisting of 9 athletes, she approached the championship with determination and confidence. Having clinched the NPAJ 2021 and 2022 titles as well as the NAPF 76kg female championship in Panama 2022, she was no stranger to the thrill of victory.
However, the IPF World Classic Open Powerlifting Championships marked a new level of competition for her. With the support of her coach, Arian Khamesi, her teammate and her father, and the entire NPAJ community watching from all over the world, Depass embraced the intense training and preparation required for the tournament.
Her hard work and dedication paid off as she dominated her group, emerging as the top performer in Group B. Depass, a determined and dedicated powerlifter, stepped onto the stage for the Squat - 76kg Group B competition.
With unwavering focus, she pushed herself to new heights. As the competition unfolded, Sami's strength and skill were on full display. With her first attempt, she lifted an impressive 175kg/365 lbs., setting the tone for her performance.
Undeterred by the weight, she advanced to her second attempt, surpassing her previous lift by adding 10kg to the bar. The crowd erupted in applause as she successfully lifted 185kg/407 lbs. showcasing her exceptional power and technique.
Emboldened by her earlier triumphs, Depass prepared for her third and final attempt. She approached the bar, determination radiating from her every pore. With sheer determination and raw strength, she conquered the weight, hoisting an astonishing 195kg/429 lbs.
The arena was engulfed in thunderous cheers as Sami not only secured her victory but also set a new NPAJ National Record, etching her name in the annals of powerlifting history. Buoyed by her success in the squat event, Sami eagerly embraced the next challenge the Bench Press. Despite facing formidable opponents, her resolve remained unyielding.
She opened her campaign with a solid 100kg/220 lbs. bench press, setting the stage for her ascent. As the competition intensified, she gathered her strength and tackled her second attempt with conviction. The weight of 105kg/231 lbs. proved to be no match for her as she flawlessly executed the lift. The crowd watched in awe as she continued to shatter records and push her limits. With her final bench press attempt, Sami faced the bar loaded with an awe-inspiring 110kg/242 lbs.
Summoning every ounce of strength within her, she powered through the resistance, conquering the weight and securing yet another triumph. The air buzzed with exhilaration as Sami not only clinched a remarkable third-place finish in her group but also achieved a new NPAJ National Record, further cementing her legacy.
Undeterred by her previous achievements, she embarked on the final leg of her journey, the Deadlift.
The intensity in her eyes matched the weight on the bar as she prepared for her first attempt. Without a hint of hesitation, Depass lifted an astounding 205kg/451 lbs. igniting the crowd's fervor before advancing to her second attempt.
Depass then a new personal best by deadlifting an astonishing 217.5kg/478.50 lbs. The audience marveled at her incredible display of power, knowing they were witnessing something truly extraordinary.
With her final lift of the day, Depass stood before the bar loaded with a mind-boggling 227.5kg/500.50 lbs. which she failed to lift in 2022.
The arena fell into hushed anticipation, fully aware of the historic feat that was about to unfold. In a moment that seemed to defy human capability, her muscles surged with energy, lifting the colossal weight with unparalleled prowess.
The crowd erupted in jubilant celebration as Sami claimed her victory in the group stage and secured a remarkable seventh-place finish overall in the standing. Her accomplishments did not end there, however.
Her awe-inspiring performance in the deadlift event also set a new NPAJ National Record, further solidifying her status as a force to be reckoned with in the world of powerlifting.
With her remarkable performance, Sami was the winner of the 76kg Group B. Depass' achievement of a perfect 9 out of 9 lifts during the event and the subsequent medal she received are a testament to her hard work and talent in powerlifting.
She shattered three new NPAJ records, surpassing even her previous accomplishments. After the completion of Group A, Sami Depass secured the seventh position overall in the female -76kg weight class at her first event IPF World Classic.
Her exceptional performance at the IPF Open Classic World Championship in Malta solidified her status as a rising star in the world of powerlifting. Her achievements served as an inspiration to aspiring powerlifters in Jamaica and beyond.
The National Powerlifting Association of Jamaica proudly celebrated her success, recognizing her as a true representative of their organization and the embodiment of strength and resilience. The competition was fierce and the stakes were high.
Karlina Tongotea, hailing from New Zealand, emerged as the ultimate champion. She pushed herself to new heights. Tongotea shattered the world record in the squat, impressively lifting 225.5kg (496.10 lbs.). Her incredible performance continued with a bench press of 122.5kg (269.50 lbs.) and a deadlift of 245kg (539 lbs.). With a total of 593kg (1,304.60 lbs.), she dominated the competition, claiming the gold medal and the title of world champion. Her achievement was further acknowledged with an impressive GL Points score of 117.17.
Agata Sitko, representing Poland, proved to be a formidable competitor. Her strength and determination were evident as she showcased her skills. She achieved a squat of 197.5kg (434.50 lbs.) and a bench press of 240kg (528 lbs.), setting a new world junior record. Her exceptional performance continued with a total of 590.5kg (1,299.10 lbs.), another world junior record.
Her outstanding performance secured her the runner-up position and a well-deserved silver medal. Her GL Points stood at an impressive 116.71.
Jessica Buettner, from Canada, also displayed her exceptional powerlifting abilities. With a powerful squat of 220kg (484 lbs.) and a bench press of 107.5kg (236.50 lbs.), she showcased her strength and determination. Her deadlift of 240kg (528 lbs.) further solidified her position in the competition. With a total of 567.5kg (1,248.50 lbs.) and a commendable GL Points score of 112.34, she secured the third-place position on the podium, earning a bronze medal.
Blair urges Powerlifting athletes, supporters to shoot for more success in year ahead
After a fairly successful year in which the National Powerlifting Association of Jamaica (NPAJ) not only achieved growth locally, but also had athletes perform credibly overseas, president Michael Blair is upbeat about the prospects for the 2024 season.
Blair, while extending well-wishes to athletes and supporters in his Christmas message, reflected on the NPAJ’s accomplishments, chief among them was the turnout at the GraceKennedy Money Services-sponsored National Deadlift Championship, as well as the performances of Jevon DaCosta, Sami DePass and others at the North American Powerlifting Championships.
“It’s been a year filled with dedication, hard work, and incredible achievements, and we want to take a moment to express our gratitude for your unwavering support. As you celebrate this special occasion, we hope you find time to reflect on the past year’s accomplishments and look forward to the new opportunities that await in the coming year,” Blair said.
“We want to express our heartfelt appreciation to each member, fan, and sponsor who has contributed to the success of the NPAJ throughout the year. Your dedication and support have played a vital role in making 2023 a powerful and memorable year for our association,” he added.
Stressing the significance of their motto “One Team, One Dream, One Goal,” Blair encouraged all and sundry to continue to draw inspiration from the saying, as they shoot for more success in the year ahead.
“It encapsulates the spirit of unity and shared purpose that defines the NPAJ. Let it guide us as we continue to pursue excellence and make a lasting impact on the sport of powerlifting in Jamaica,” the president shared.
“Christmas is a time to cherish the company of those closest to us. May your homes be filled with laughter, love, and the warmth of shared moments. Take this opportunity to create lasting memories with your families and friends, savoring the joyous moments that make this season truly special. May the holiday season fill your hearts with gratitude and set the stage for a bright and promising New Year,” Blair ended.
England boss Gareth Southgate targets unbeaten run ahead of Euro 2024
Gareth Southgate wants England to go into next summer’s Euros with momentum and is targeting an unbeaten run all the way through to Germany.
Having wrapped up progress to next year’s finals with two games to spare, Friday’s forgettable 2-0 victory against Malta all-but assured their place among the top seeds at the December 2 draw.
England cruised to qualification from what had looked to be a potentially tricky pool and Southgate wants his side to end 2023 with a bang as they round off Group C away to North Macedonia on Monday.
But with Euro 2024 glory their stated ambition, the former defender wants his players to keep their foot on the gas.
“We’ve had a really good calendar year and we want to finish it well,” the England manager said ahead of the trip to Skopje. “Simple as that.
“We should be aiming to go, if we can, into the tournament unbeaten. We’ve got some tough games coming ahead.
“I mean, I’m a bit loathed to say that because then you start looking for draws when you want to go and win matches as well, so I want to get the messaging right on that.
“But, you know, it’s good for us to be away from Wembley again, a challenging environment because that’s what we’re going to be in next summer.”
England have not lost a match since last December’s galling 2-1 defeat to eventual runners-up France in their World Cup quarter-final clash in Qatar.
Les Bleus are among their main rivals for silverware next summer, with Southgate’s side stepping up preparations for the Euros with challenging March friendlies against Brazil and Belgium at Wembley.
Both opponents will provide stern tests for a team that Southgate says cannot afford to fall short of the level “they need to be at” like they were against Mediterranean minnows Malta.
“The teams we’ve got in March, we wouldn’t get away with it,” Southgate said. “And the players just would have a different level of motivation (compared to against Malta).
“This week was always going to be difficult. We’ve already qualified, the players are in the middle of a load of matches.
“We’re trying to look after a few physically with the team selection, so you’re making changes that, had we needed to win tonight to qualify, might be different.
“So, yeah, the whole week has been a little bit like that – couldn’t really get the players on the pitch until Wednesday and as a consequence we were flat. I accept that.
“That’s where we were but I’m not going to get into the players about that. I know why and they’ve won another game of football.
“It could have been by more. Not quite sure why the third (from Declan Rice) was disallowed, but there we are.”
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As frustrating as Friday night was at Wembley, England remain well placed for silverware in Southgate’s fourth – and quite possibly final – major tournament at the helm.
There is no time to waste with chances to work together limited, plus the fact Monday’s trip to Skopje looks likely to be their final match on foreign soil until the Euros get under way in June.
North Macedonia are expected to be far better than in June’s 7-0 Old Trafford annihilation and Southgate has a number of things to consider before settling on his side for the Group C finale.
“A lot of our decision-making is physical as much as anything at the moment, so it’s a strange thing,” he said.
“Probably if you’ve still got to qualify there’s a different focus on the games and everybody’s happy and understands their players have got to play.
“You’re not subconsciously thinking about ‘should we be pushing players out for another game?’
“So, we need to look at where we are after this game in terms of any knocks and bumps.
“We’ve got some fresh players to come in. We want to get the balance of the team right and then assess whether there are certain things we want to see and learn from Monday night’s game as well.”
Saka avoids commenting on VAR after England’s 2-0 win over Malta
Bukayo Saka refused to be drawn into more VAR controversy following England’s mundane Euro 2024 qualifying win over Malta.
The Arsenal winger has seen club manager Mikel Arteta handed a Football Association charge for his criticism of referees and VAR in the recent 1-0 Premier League defeat at Newcastle.
Arteta said it was “embarrassing” and a “disgrace” that Anthony Gordon’s goal was allowed to stand following a lengthy check.
England limped to a forgettable 2-0 victory over Malta at Wembley on Friday night but saw captain Harry Kane booked for simulation when there appeared to be clear contact from Malta goalkeeper Henry Bonello.
Saka was introduced at the interval and set up Kane to double England’s lead before his Arsenal team-mate Declan Rice had a goal ruled out when VAR intervened once again to rule that Kane was offside.
“Honestly, let’s not make comments about VAR tonight,” Saka replied when asked about the tight calls.
“I think let’s just focus on the win, the three points and be positive about it.”
England had taken an early lead through an Enrico Pepe own goal but then toiled, with no shot on target until well into the second-half and Kane shown a yellow card having been accused of going to ground to easily.
Asked if he had ever known Kane to dive, Saka added: “No, no. Even if I did I’m not going to say it now! He’s not a diver.
“I think it was a clear penalty from what I saw. I thought even VAR would check it and overturn it but I don’t know what they saw.”
While the win over the minnows of Malta may have been wholly unconvincing, it does mean Gareth Southgate’s side are all-but assured of being top seeds at Euro 2024.
“(That is) very important,” Saka said.
“Going into this camp Gareth made that really clear and was clear that it was important for us.
“So obviously the mindset going into these two games we made sure that we were on it and we made sure that we were ready to win, so we won today – obviously we don’t want to lose to North Macedonia, the mindset (is) to go there and win again. So that’s what we’re focused on.
“I think it’s a game where we didn’t really start the best, obviously we tried to pick up the pace but we have to give some credit to Malta as well, they played quite well.
“But in the end, we won 2-0, we got the three points so now we just have to move on.”
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