Hernandez Wins Two Maine Powerlifting Titles
The 72-year-old lifter took two state championships at the 2026 RPS Maine State Powerlifting Championships in Falmouth.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Body Building
James Hernandez, 72, won two state championships at the 2026 RPS Maine State Powerlifting Championships held at Beyond Strength Gym in Falmouth. He set four state records in the classic raw division, marking his sixth straight powerlifting championship.
Why it matters
The results add to Hernandez's record of eight State of Maine Records and two world records in masters competition. His performance highlights continued competitive strength among older lifters in Maine.
Hernandez competed at 225 pounds in the 242-pound class and set four state records in the classic raw division, which uses no wraps or knee sleeves. He now owns eight State of Maine Records and two world records.
The players
James Hernandez
A 72-year-old powerlifter from Washburn, Maine, and a member of the Maine Sports Hall of Fame, who trains in Presque Isle.
The details
Hernandez won two state championships in the men's masters amateur 70-74 age group and the men's military amateur 70-74 age group, both in the 242-pound class. The event was held at Beyond Strength Gym in Falmouth, where he competed in the raw classic division.
Timeline
September 2025: Hernandez set multiple state records at the Maine State Championships in Falmouth.
2025: He won gold and set four national records at the National Senior Games in Des Moines, Iowa.
April 2025: He won his second straight Vermont Senior State Games Powerlifting Championship.
October 2026: He won two titles at the 2026 RPS Maine State Powerlifting Championships.
Season Trajectory
Hernandez's sixth straight powerlifting championship extends a multi-year run of state titles in the masters ranks. His eight State of Maine Records and two world records place him among the most decorated older lifters in the state.
Hernandez's results set a benchmark for masters lifters in Maine competing at the state and national levels. Records like these are tracked by state and national federations and may serve as targets for other competitors in the same age and weight classes.
The takeaway
Consistent training and disciplined competition across decades can sustain elite performance well into later life. Hernandez's record shows that age-group competition offers a clear measure of progress for lifters at every stage.
Further reading
For more on competitive strength training, see Body Building coverage across Maine.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The County.
