Lennox lifters shine at National Stage in Omaha
- Apr 29
- 2 min read
A trio of Lennox High School powerlifters capped their seasons with strong performances against top competition from across the country at the Powerlifting America High School Nationals, held April 17–18 in Omaha.
Under the direction of coach Jona Leo, powerlifters Abbie Wildeboer, Sierra Wesseling and Gavin Horner represented Lennox on one of the sport’s biggest high school stages, gaining valuable experience while earning top finishes in their respective divisions.
Sophomore Sierra Wesseling delivered one of the top performances of the weekend for Lennox, placing second in the Women’s Raw JV 63kg class with a total lift of 232.5 kilograms, narrowly missing a national title.
“Going to nationals was an amazing experience, it was different than what I’ve seen before but the difference made it feel more professional,” Wesseling said. “Starting the morning I was nervous but getting on the mat and doing that first lift and it being successful and the joy it brought me, is why I love this sport. During nationals I made an amazing new friend, and with this sport I love that the friendships you make at a meet are the kind of friendships that last for years. I will always remember this experience as the place where I made a great friend, made great progress with my lifting journey, and came home with a medal. I’m excited for next season and I can’t wait to see the progress I make with this sport in the years to come.”
Senior Abbie Wildeboer closed out her high school career with a sixth-place finish in the Women’s Varsity Raw 63kg division, recording a total of 280 kilograms against a highly competitive field.
“The weight you lift today becomes the confidence you carry tomorrow because your strength isn’t just in your muscles, it’s in the days you show up when you don’t feel like it so be addicted to bettering yourself,” Wildeboer said.
On the men’s side, senior Gavin Horner also turned in a strong showing, placing fifth in the Men’s Raw 105kg division with a total of 575 kilograms to conclude his high school career.
“Going to US nationals was a fun and challenging experience,” Horner said. “It tested me in ways training never could, and I’m grateful to my coaches for getting me ready for that challenge.”
