CULLMAN, Ala. – The Garage and Cullman Barbell will host the My Bloody Valentine Novice Powerlifting Meet on Saturday, Feb. 9, at 4 p.m. The competition, designed specifically for up-and-coming lifters, follows World Raw Powerlifting Federation (WRPF) rules and provides amateur competitors with a unique opportunity to test their strength in a Full Power (squat, bench press and deadlift), raw, no-wraps meet while competing for cash prizes.
Unlike traditional powerlifting competitions, this event caps DOTS scores at 400, ensuring a level playing field for newer lifters. DOTS is a coefficient-based scoring system that ranks lifters across different weight classes. By limiting the maximum DOTS score, The Garage and Cullman Barbell aim to give novice lifters and hobbyists a real shot at winning cash prizes.
Weigh-ins will take place on Feb. 7, from 4-7 p.m., at The Garage. The male and female overall winners will be determined based on the highest DOTS score. The entry fee is $120, with payouts depending on participation. Spectator admission is $10, while coaches pay a $20 fee. The Garage merchandise will be available for purchase and Tamales El Carrenton will be on-site.
“The first year just inspired us to do them more often,” said Zack Gordon, owner of Cullman Barbell. “We made big changes this year, like integrating calibrated competition plates just like in an official event. We also geared this specific competition towards our novice competitors by capping the DOTS score to give them a shot at the money.”
The meet serves as more than just a competition; it’s also a chance for the community to experience powerlifting firsthand. “I’d encourage the community to come check it out in general,” Gordon added. “It’s a quality spectator sport. It’s also a sport that’s welcoming and has cheap start-up costs compared to other things. Not much is required other than a singlet and effort.”
Those interested in competing can contact Cullman Barbell at 256-590-6371 or search for “My Bloody Valentine Novice Powerlifting Meet” on Facebook. For more information about The Garage, call 256-962-0463 between 4-8 p.m.
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