Recently, the Malta Drug-Free Powerlifting Association held its third annual team championships, sponsored by Holland & Barrett.

Four teams of three lifters each competed for the honours. Last year’s champions, Heavy Metal, once again reigned supreme, managing to win the shield once again. Former world champion Mario Mifsud led the winning team, which consisted also of Marvin Cilia and Daniel Grima.

These championships were a success because some veteran lifters managed to post improvements over their previous results, and also because a number of newcomers to the scene proved that this sport is still growing in popularity.

Noteworthy lifts were Matthew Muscat Inglott’s 275kg deadlift in the under 100kg division as well as Mario Mifsud’s 180kg bench press in the under 125kg division.

Neil Micallef is also worth a mention since he achieved a 375kg total in the under 75kg division on his debut.

The next competition on the MDFPA’s calendar is set for Sunday 22 May at Noble Gym, Sliema.