I remember Shelley walking through my gym door almost 3 years ago asking me for help. Help loosing weight. Help getting in shape and help to feel better about herself. Well I will say this, she has done very well for herself since that day.
Fast forward to last weekend and Shelley has exceeded expectations of what she set out to do in the beginning! Shelley is the end result of hard work, drive and having a no quit attitude. She has worked hard to get where she is now. Being a mother of two sons, a wife and a full time 17 year teacher at our middle school, she proves that "not having time to train = is bullshit".
Shelley's personality and happy attitude are very infectious. Having been her friend since we were 11 years old (over 30 years now) I have gotten to know her very well. Very grounded, a devout wife and mother and a loyal friend. If you know her then you know these statements are true.
Shelley is every Coaches dream. She listens, supports others, train hard, hardly ever late or misses training sessions, talks back, does what she is required each and every training cycle, never gives up and inspires. That's a mouthful but done get it twisted, she is not always roses and sun flowers. Shelley is very competitive and likes to talk shit. Also don't get on her bad side! That smile is only for show if you piss her off!
Last weekend Shelley had her biggest powerlifting meet to date. Last September she had a major hernia surgery that kept her out of training for almost 4 months. When she returned it was like starting all over again. She sucked it up though and got prepared for her next training cycle and meet. In just 3.5 months she was ready to hit the platform full throttle. Her accomplishments are incredible and inspiring. I am so very proud of you sis! Huge congratulations!
Here is what she accomplished:
Shelley Prather Yates – 41 years old - Raw Full Power - 220 weight class - Masters Division
9 for 9 on attempts
Squat - 403 pounds - 58 pound PR!
Bench - 199 pounds - 29 pound PR!
Deadlift - 408 pounds - 73 pound PR!
Total - 1010 pounds - 160 pound PR!
1st Place Finish
Set 4 new NC SPF State Records
Set 4 new SPF National Records
Set 4 new SPF World Records
Achieved her master's elite total for the 220 weight class (2nd master's elite total - 198 & 220 weight class)
8th powerlifting meet!
