Understanding Powerlifting Records for Older Athletes
Powerlifting records for older adults, known as masters lifters, are not as straightforward as open-class records. The variations arise from the numerous powerlifting federations, each with its own rule sets, age brackets, and gear classifications. For a 61-year-old, records are typically found within the 'Masters 3' (age 60-64) category, but further segmented by bodyweight and whether the lift is 'raw' (unsupported by a lifting suit) or 'equipped' (with a lifting suit).
Men's Deadlift Records for 61-Year-Olds
Several men have demonstrated phenomenal strength at age 61. One notable example is David Ricks, a powerlifting veteran who, at 61, deadlifted 282.5 kg (623 lbs) at the USAPL Nationals in 2021. While this was an American Masters record, the lift is indicative of the potential for this age group. Another inspiring story comes from a Windsor, Ontario trucker, who in 2019, deadlifted over 600 pounds at age 61, breaking world records in his category at an IPF World Championship.
- David Ricks (2023): Achieved a 282.5 kg (623 lbs) deadlift, setting an American Masters record.
- Kenneth Rice (2024): At 64, set a national USPA record for the 60-64 age group with a 578.7 lbs (262.5 kg) deadlift.
- 100% Raw Powerlifting Federation (2016): A world raw record was set in the 60-64 age group (198 lbs class) with a 534.6 lbs deadlift.
Women's Deadlift Records for 61-Year-Olds
Female lifters also defy expectations, setting impressive benchmarks in masters divisions. Terri VandeVegte from Michigan set a world record by deadlifting 413 pounds at age 61. Similarly, European lifter Katerina Beremark, at 61, established a classic (raw) deadlift world record of 182.5 kg in her Masters 3, 84+ kg category.
- Terri VandeVegte (2021): Deadlifted 413 pounds, setting a world record.
- Katerina Beremark (2025): Achieved a Classic deadlift world record of 182.5 kg (402 lbs).
- Reddit User's Mom (2018): At 64, lifted 325 lbs in the RPS 60-64, 198 lb division, breaking a world record.
Factors Influencing Deadlift Records at Age 61
It is important to acknowledge that a single, universal record doesn't exist. Several key factors impact the record books:
- Weight Class: Records are broken down by bodyweight, so a lighter lifter's record is not comparable to a heavier one.
- Raw vs. Equipped: The use of supportive gear like deadlift suits can significantly increase the weight lifted, so raw and equipped records are tracked separately.
- Federation: The sanctioning body (e.g., USAPL, IPF, WDFPF) determines the rules and recognizes the records. A record in one federation may not be recognized by another.
Comparison of Masters Deadlift Records by Federation
| Federation | Example Lifter & Age | Deadlift Lifted | Category | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USAPL (American) | David Ricks, 61 | 282.5 kg (623 lbs) | Masters 60+ | American record (raw) |
| European Powerlifting (EU) | Katerina Beremark, 61 | 182.5 kg (402 lbs) | Masters 3 (84+ kg) | World classic (raw) record |
| 100% Raw Powerlifting | Master Lifter, 60-64 | 534.6 lbs (242.5 kg) | Raw (198 lbs class) | World record |
| RPS (via Reddit) | 64-Year-Old Mom | 325 lbs (147.5 kg) | 60-64 (198 lbs class) | World record |
| USPA (National) | Kenneth James, 60-64 | 240 kg (529 lbs) | Masters (242 lbs class) | National record |
Training and Staying Strong Over 60
Achieving and maintaining this level of strength in your 60s and beyond is a testament to consistent training, smart programming, and recovery. Paul Collinson, a 61-year-old powerlifter, shared that his motivations are personal bests and overall fitness, noting that lifting helps with muscle and ligament strength, preventing muscle wastage and falls. Key components of masters training include:
- Prioritizing Recovery: Older lifters often require more rest time between sessions and need to listen closely to their bodies to prevent injury.
- Focus on Technique: Maintaining perfect form becomes even more crucial to protect joints and ensure long-term sustainability.
- Nutrition: Proper nutrition, especially adequate protein intake, is essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Warm-ups: Longer, more thorough warm-ups are necessary to prepare the body for heavy lifting.
Conclusion
The question of what is the deadlift record for a 61 year old reveals that there is not one single answer, but rather a collection of impressive achievements across different federations and categories. The performances of lifters like David Ricks and Terri VandeVegte demonstrate that age is not a barrier to incredible strength. These records are a powerful reminder that dedicated training can lead to extraordinary accomplishments, inspiring fitness enthusiasts of all ages to continue pursuing their goals. For those interested in powerlifting at a masters level, researching records within specific federations and weight classes will provide the most accurate benchmarks.
For more detailed information on specific powerlifting events and records, a good starting point is the Open Powerlifting database, which aggregates results from numerous competitions worldwide.
Masters Powerlifting Insights
- The deadlift record for a 61-year-old varies greatly depending on the weight class, federation, and type of lift (raw or equipped).
- Master's lifters continue to set impressive records well into their 60s and beyond, challenging common stereotypes about aging and physical capability.
- David Ricks is a notable 61-year-old male powerlifter, having set an American Masters deadlift record of 623 lbs.
- Terri VandeVegte is a notable 61-year-old female powerlifter, holding a world record with a 413 lbs deadlift.
- The age category for a 61-year-old is typically Masters 3 (60-64) in many powerlifting federations.
- Proper training for masters lifters emphasizes recovery, technique, and nutrition to support strength gains and prevent injury.
- Searching specific powerlifting databases like Open Powerlifting and individual federation sites is the best way to find the most current and specific record.
FAQs
Q: Who holds the men's deadlift world record for a 61 year old? A: There is no single universal deadlift world record for a 61-year-old, as records are categorized by federation, weight class, and equipment. However, notable lifters include David Ricks, who deadlifted 623 lbs (282.5 kg) at age 61 for an American Masters record.
Q: What is the highest recorded deadlift by a woman at age 61? A: In 2021, Terri VandeVegte set a world record by deadlifting 413 pounds at age 61. In 2025, Katerina Beremark also set a Classic deadlift world record of 182.5 kg (402 lbs) in her masters category.
Q: How do powerlifting federations classify records for older athletes? A: Most powerlifting federations, such as the IPF and USAPL, organize older athletes into 'masters' age groups, with a 61-year-old typically falling into the 60-64 age bracket. These records are further segmented by weight class and equipment usage (raw vs. equipped).
Q: Is it harder to set deadlift records as you get older? A: Yes, it is generally more challenging to set deadlift records with age due to natural decreases in muscle mass, strength, and bone density. However, masters powerlifters demonstrate that consistent training can lead to incredible strength achievements well into later years.
Q: What is the difference between a raw and equipped deadlift record? A: A raw deadlift is performed without the use of specialized supportive equipment like a lifting suit. An equipped deadlift, however, allows for the use of such gear, which can significantly increase the weight a lifter can pull. The two types of records are kept separate.
Q: Can I find a definitive, official list of deadlift records for every age? A: While databases like Open Powerlifting compile results from many federations, there is no single official list for every age due to the multitude of weight classes, equipment rules, and governing bodies. It is necessary to search for records specific to a particular federation.
Q: What kind of training do masters powerlifters do? A: Masters lifters often focus on injury prevention by prioritizing mobility, technique, and longer warm-ups. Their training is carefully managed to allow for adequate recovery between sessions, and smart programming is key to continued strength progression.
