04/22/2026
🏆 2026 Illinois State Fair Bench Press & Deadlift Championships 🏆
Presented by MST Powerlifting
The tradition is BACK.
After a few years away, the Illinois State Fair Bench Press & Deadlift Championships return to the platform on Saturday, August 22nd during the iconic Illinois State Fair in Springfield.
A meet with roots going all the way back to 1983, this event has been a staple of strength at the fair—and now it’s making its return under MST Powerlifting.
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📍 THE LOCATION:
We’re taking over The Shed—right next to the legendary Illinois State Fair Butter Cow
Get ready to lift in front of massive foot traffic, nonstop energy, and one of the most unique atmospheres in powerlifting.
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💪 Whether you’re chasing a PR, stepping on the platform for the first time, or putting on a show for the crowd—this meet is built for YOU.
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💥 REGISTRATION: https://forms.gle/G3PGfyxssQoDRTb8A
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🔥 The Format:
Push/Pull Powerlifting Meet (Bench Press & Deadlift only)
📋 The Rules:
Non-sanctioned event — no federation membership required
🏋️♂️ Who Can Compete:
Open to lifters of all experience levels
First-timers to elite lifters welcome
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🎡 Why This Meet is Different:
You’re not just lifting—you’re performing.
This is powerlifting in front of a live fair crowd. Hundreds (if not thousands) of spectators walking by, stopping, cheering, and experiencing the sport up close.
This is where strength meets spectacle.
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🔥 A historic meet. A legendary location. A massive comeback.
Step on the platform. Represent your gym. Be part of bringing this tradition back to life.
Please share this post!✅
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