Guam Legislature honors competitors from first USA Powerlifting–sanctioned Island Strength Classic

Members of the 37th Guam Legislature presented legislative certificates Dec. 24 at Guam Congress Hall to competitors and organizers of the first USA Powerlifting–sanctioned Island Strength Classic. The certificates, the legislators said, were intended to recognize athletes across multiple weight and age divisions who competed in the historic on-island meet.

Sen. Chris D. Malefonche (presenting) named individual winners by division, including Jasmine Bridal Takai (48 kilograms), Morgan Duenas (67.5 kilograms), Kaylee Leon Guerrero (second, 67.5 kilograms), Hazy Ode San Jose (82.5 kilograms), Amanda Caldito (100 kilograms), Talents Nicholas (52 kilograms, first meet), Francis Pastonis (67.5 kilograms), Kyle Anenzo (75 kilograms), Jaylen Villegas (second, 75 kilograms), Matua Salas (second, 82.5 kilograms), Robert Perez (second, 90 kilograms) and Christian Duenas (110 kilograms). Organizers and contributors recognized included Elvin De Leon (USA Powerlifting state chair and meet director), Albert Luhan (spotter and loader), Angelica Ventura (meet contributor) and James Artero (International Sports Center contributor).

Speakers called the sanctioned status important because it placed competitors on official records and makes participation more accessible on-island. Elvin De Leon and others said holding a sanctioned meet locally reduces the need for athletes to travel off-island and incur substantial costs to compete. Presenters and contributors thanked the community and volunteers for supporting the event and noted broader participation across ages and divisions.

The event recognition was framed as ceremonial; no legislative action, vote, ordinance or formal policy change relating to the meet was announced during the presentation. Presenters closed with holiday greetings for competitors and their families and encouraged certificate recipients to deliver awards to those who could not attend.