Powerlifting competition to be featured at upcoming Blueberry Festival

Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 7:41 AM

By Kathy Bottorff

A brand-new event is making its debut at this year's Blueberry Festival in Plymouth. — and it's one for the strong at heart.

The Blueberry Beast is a powerlifting competition coming to the skate park at Centennial Park on September 5 and 6. Organized by Adam Baer, Burke Richeson, and MaKla Sanchez — owner of FitStop in Plymouth and Rochester — the event features three lifts: back squat, bench press, and deadlift. Athletes will compete for prize money, trophies, and bragging rights, with standings determined by the Wilks Coefficient, which accounts for weight, age, and sex.

Registration is $100 and includes a swag bag, t-shirt, towel, refreshments, and a competitor's medallion. Spots are limited.

All proceeds benefit Fire Buddies — a firefighter-led charity supporting families with terminally ill children.

To sign up or sponsor the event, search Blueberry Beast – Lifting Competition on Facebook, or email BlueberryBeastFest@gmail.com.