Weightlifters often pursue “gains” in a variety of categories. For 15-year-old James Swift, of Murrysville, those gains have come at quite a rapid pace.
He began working with trainers at Dean’s Fitness on Old William Penn Highway in July 2018. Less than a year later, the Franklin Regional freshman won the classic physique category in his age group at the OCB Pittsburgh Pro Qualifier tournament in April.
This month, Swift brought home three first-place finishes and three state records from the USA Powerlifting Pittsburgh Fall Classic, held at the Pittsburgh Barbell Club in Bridgeville on Nov. 10.
“I lifted a total that qualifies me to compete in any national meet in the next 18 months,” Swift said.
Swift is a very well-rounded athlete, said Dean Tortorice, owner of Dean’s Fitness.
“He works very hard, and his consistency and focus is phenomenal,” Tortorice said. “He acts bashful, but he’s not. Up onstage, he’s a crowd pleaser.”
But Swift’s winning smile isn’t what earned him state records for dead-lifting, squats and total weight lifted in the 66-kilogram category.
Swift is ranked first in Pennsylvania and third in the nation for total weight lifted, and he placed first in both the men’s open and teen divisions in the 66-kilogram category.
Swift began training for power-lifting competition in June.
“It’s easier to see your progress,” he said. “It’s all about the weight, so you can tell the results from increased weight.”
Next, Swift must decide which national competition he wants to enter as he continues training.
His family can’t wait to see his progress.
“James has worked so hard and he’s so excited,” said his mother Melissa.
