Kolb can now count himself as a pioneer.
When it comes to some of the most powerful lifts in recorded history, powerlifter Jimmy Kolb now stands alone. On February 4, 2023, During the 2023 International Powerlifting Association (IPA) Hillbilly Havoc in Hurricane, WV, Kolb captured the 612.5-kilogram (1,350.3-pound) equipped bench press. The mark is an all-time world record and the heaviest lift ever achieved in officially sanctioned competition., According to open powerlifting, Kolb surpassed his previous world record of 598.7 kg (1,320 lb) from the 2022 IPA State Championships. equipped press First lift over 600 kg in any powerlifting division or category Sometimes.
In addition to being adorned with proper wrist wraps and a lifting belt during his monumental feat, Kolb used a bench press shirt. Special equipment helps an athlete lower their weight down their chest while also “resisting” as the weight lowers toward the athlete. Kolb competed in the 140-plus-kilogram weight class, which he has maintained since January 2021, having officially weighed 147.8 kg (326 lb) for the most recent record-setting competition.
The video of Kolb’s massive lift has several spotters on hand, giving him the requisite support. The athlete lowered his loaded barbell to his chest and struggled into position, fighting against the durable bench press shirt, before receiving the judge’s go-ahead to lift. There appeared to be a measure of tension for Kolb, but he eventually successfully fended off the rap. Once in the lockout position, the athlete held the weight securely before the official allowed him to rack it again.
In the same video post, Kolb’s pride in recording his record achievement was evident in smiling as he displayed his official scorecard.
“Today was a nice day.”
Prior to Kolb’s new bench press feat, Nathan Baptiste was the closest athlete to the 600 kg barrier in any single lift. open powerlifting, Baptiste successfully deadlifted 594.7 kg (1,311.7 lb) for a world record over 140 kg at the Utah Kickoff of the 2021 United Powerlifting Association (UPA).
Notably, Kolb participates in primarily bench-press-only meets. Kolb has won his last nine fights as of February 2020, only one of which had a full strength meeting at the 2022 IPA 814 Strength Specucular. Ultimately, in a relatively prolific career that began in April 2009, Kolb has finished just short of a first-place result on eight occasions.
Now, as he eyes another great mark, Kolb may find that all his hard work has led him to make history once again.
Featured Image: @kolbstrong on Instagram
