Jason Beck lifted on Friday, September 14th, 2001. He was seeded 7th in the pre-contest nominations. Jason no doubt went there with something to prove. Jason squatted a Junior American / State Record Squat 667 and Junior American / State Total Record 1725 on his way to 5th place finish. This total is truly a huge day considering the speed and difficulty of lifting on this platform. Jason also walked away with a Silver in the Squat.

Beck 2001 Collegiate National Champion and his trophy

Erik Steiner lifted on Saturday, September 15th, 2001. He was also seeded 7th in the pre-contest nominations. Erik was lucky enough to make the team from alternate spot. At Junior Nationals he was a lock-out away from winning the 242 Junior Class. He got a second chance on making this elite team and took full advantage of this. Erik was definitely prepared for this International stage. Erik hit solid numbers in the squat and a state record bench and was in a good position at Sub-totals. After missing his second deadlift, the coaches made the decision to not tell him that if he pulled 639 he would place 3rd overall. Something Erik said he couldn't possible fathom. The bar was loaded and the USA team was psyched. Erik got it and took home a bronze medal in the total along with a state record total! He said he truly didn't understand what he had done until he was standing on the awards blocks and watched the American flag rise to the rafters in the gym. He said he felt numb and on top of the World.

Steiner Making a key pull at Iron Lion Classic II

Most the article above was written per a phone call I got from Erik after the competition Saturday. Erik said they had seen the tragedy happen live from their hotel rooms in Bulgaria. The USA Team sends their prayers out to everyone affected by this horrible tragedy. I told them (PJ Chovonec and Erik) during this phone call to make sure they tell the US Team they did us proud and to have safe journey home