Steers powerlifter advancing to state

Two Steers powerlifters represented Graham High School at the regional powerlifting meet in Abilene and one will be advancing to the state competition. 

McCrae Reese and Brennen Strawbridge competed Saturday, March 14 in the Boys Region 1 Division 2 Championships at Abilene Wylie High School. Reese placed third in the 308-pound weight class with a total of 1,600 pounds, with 605 pounds on squat, 415 pounds on bench press and 580 pounds on deadlift. 

With a total of 1,600 pounds across his three lifts, Reese qualified for the state competition. 

Strawbridge placed sixth in the 308 weight class with a total of 1,375 pounds, with 525 pounds on squat, 325 pounds on bench press and 525 pounds on deadlift. 

Powerlifting head coach Coby Yowell reflected on these boys’ hard work over the course of the season that got them to this point, and also gave his props to Reese who qualified for the state tournament. 

“As always they work their tails off and do a great job,” Yowell said. “Having a state qualifier (Reese) shows how hard the kids have worked.” 

The Texas High School Powerlifting Association State Championships will be held Friday, March 27 for lifters in Division 2 at the Taylor County Expo Center in Abilene. Opening ceremonies will be held at 7:50 a.m. and lifting will begin at 8 a.m.