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Byron Monster - Dedicated Athlete

Byron's Medals

He earned his first medal - a silver - in Olympic lifting at Lewisporte in 1980. As of May 31, 2003, Byron's collection consists of 49 medals - 22 gold, 14 silver, 13 bronze - and eight trophies as Best Lifter. His best year was in 2000, compiling a total of 12 medals at four meets. That's pretty impressive for a man who, from the beginning, has always done it solo. 'My best lifts are the squat and dead lift,' he says. He means the personal bests he reached in Nova Scotia on May 3, 2003; an awesome 551 pounds in squat and dead lift with a bench press of 319.

Some of the events Byron has competed in include: National Powerlifting Championships; Eastern Canadian Powerlifting Championships; North Sydney Invitational; Noca Scotia Masters Powerlifting Championships; Powerlifting & Bench Press Championships; August Classic Powerlifting Championships (Corner Brook). He frequently returns from these meets with multiple medals.

He is grateful for the support and sponsorship he gets. 'I can't say enough about the sponsorship that I have received,' he once said. 'Without good sponsorship, it would be impossible for me to travel and take part in events. They are the ones giving me this opportunity.' He added that their support and kindness provide him with the motivation to continue. He says he also gets tremendous support from the people of Nova Scotia whenever he performs there.

Byron Monster

Byron and his wife, Brenda, still live in Fortune where he continues to work in the local fish plant. They raised two daughters, Tanya and Shantel, in their modest, comfortable home, with the ocean at their back door. When he is not working or training, he enjoys being in the country, walking and fishing.

When he turns 49 (June 2003), he will qualify to compete as a Master II Lifter. He then becomes eligible for a chance at setting new Canadian National records, a fact that stays in the back of his mind. He anticipates many more competitions in the future, maybe even on a world level. One thing is certain, whatever goal he sets his sights on, he will do whatever it takes and give it his best efforts.

Story © Fay Herridge 2003

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