Latasha Jackson: From Britain to Jamaica, a outstanding rise to powerlifting stardom
The 2023 Nationwide Deadlift Championship, proudly sponsored by GraceKennedy Cash Companies, witnessed a unprecedented show of powerlifting prowess on the Match Farm Heart in Kingston, Jamaica, on September 23.
Among the many standout opponents was Latasha Jackson, initially from Britain, who emerged as an simple star, leaving an indelible mark on the powerlifting world.
Jackson’s outstanding journey to this championship occasion was fuelled by her aspiration to symbolize Jamaica in a sport she was keen about. Impressed by Sami DePass, a famend determine in powerlifting whose feats she witnessed on the World Championships in Malta, Jackson made her debut on the Jamaican powerlifting scene on the Deadlift Championship.
Her path to turning into a member of the Nationwide Powerlifting Affiliation of Jamaica (NPAJ) was a testomony to her unwavering resolve. In her personal phrases “Though I come from Britain, I’ve at all times wished to symbolize Jamaica in one thing I’m keen about, seeing Sami DePass on the World Championships in Malta impressed me to make step one which was to compete in a meet in Jamaica.”
Rigorous coaching routine
Jackson’s rigorous coaching routine included 4 weekly exercises, specializing in each higher and decrease physique power. Bench press, deadlift, and squat shaped the core of her coaching, with a selected emphasis on deadlifts within the last two weeks main as much as the competitors. A balanced weight-reduction plan that includes three protein-rich meals a day performed a vital function in sustaining her vitality ranges for these intense exercises.
On the NPAJ Nationwide Deadlift Championship 2023, Jackson’s efficiency was nothing in need of breathtaking. Her first elevate of 172.73kg (380lb) set the stage for her dominance. She adopted it with a formidable 179.55kg (395lb) elevate.
Nonetheless, it was her third and last elevate that left spectators in awe, as she confidently hoisted an astonishing 190.91kg (420lb). This unimaginable feat secured her a complete of 36.34GL Factors, crowning her the NPAJ Feminine Deadlift Champion for 2023.
Upon realizing her victory, Jackson stated: “Pure and utter shock! I solely wished to return to take part and watch different lifters, however discovering out that I gained additionally was the icing on the cake.”
Pressured to make important changes
Jackson’s journey wasn’t with out its challenges. Adapting to native weight plates and restricted gear availability in Jamaica required her to make important changes. But, her willpower prevailed. She supplied insights, stating: “Powerlifting is a long-term sport, so that you by no means should be ‘ok’ to compete. When you begin, proceed asking questions and rising your information so that you simply perceive how your physique works as a way to progress each inside and out of doors the gymnasium.”
Because the NPAJ Feminine Deadlift Champion for 2023, Jackson has turn into an inspiration for aspiring athletes. Her dedication, unwavering dedication and memorable power remind us all that greatness is attainable by way of exhausting work and willpower.
Congratulations to Latasha Jackson on her extraordinary victory. The Nationwide Powerlifting Affiliation of Jamaica Restricted and all the powerlifting neighborhood eagerly anticipate her continued success within the sport.