Article Text

Nineteen-year-old Mikayla Dolina dominated the Junior 67.5-kilogram division at the United States Powerlifting Association Ultra Nationals in Anaheim, California, winning by 50.5 kilograms on May 26.

The McLean athlete posted a 423-kilogram total and broke three International Powerlifting League Junior world records. Her total surpassed the record set in 2021 by 23 kilograms.

Mikayla’s performance included a 158-kilogram squat and a state-record 92.5-kilogram bench press. On a fourth attempt, she deadlifted 181.5 kilograms, or 400 pounds, becoming the first junior in her weight class to reach that milestone.

A student at James Madison University, Mikayla hopes to establish a collegiate powerlifting team there. She also wants her example to help other women feel more comfortable lifting heavy weights in the gym.

“I like to think of myself as a bit of an ambassador for the sport of powerlifting at my school,” she said.

Her 17-year-old brother, Sawyer Dolina, made his national debut in Anaheim and placed fourth in the Men’s Junior 90-kilogram class. He recorded a 180-kilogram squat, a 130-kilogram bench press and a 227.5-kilogram deadlift.

Sawyer said the sport’s supportive community includes athletes ranging from age 12 to older than 80, as well as competitors with physical disabilities. Seeing their performances, he said, inspires him to do his best.

Their brother Charlie did not compete in Anaheim but continues to use powerlifting to support his other athletic pursuits. He began strength training while wrestling and is now more focused on volleyball, though he plans to keep powerlifting because its benefits carry over to other sports.