June 9th, 2025
By Kezia Joseph, GAPLF and Denita Prowell
Guyanese powerlifting mega-talent, Dominic Tyrrell, will be representing Guyana at one of the most prestigious events in powerlifting: the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) World Open Classic Powerlifting Championships. This annual event is scheduled to be held June 8 – 15, 2025 in Chemnitz, Germany.
Dominic is set to compete on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at 18:30hrs (Germany time) or 12:30hrs (Guyana time) in Group A. He will go head-to-head against other elite powerlifters in the 83kg weight class category from the USA, Canada, Europe and other countries.
Dominic recently participated in France’s inaugural Squat Bench and Deadlift Showdown in Montpellier in April earning an impressive 4th place. Prior to this, he competed in the 2024 IPF World Classic Open Powerlifting Championships in Druskininkai, Lithuania in June 2024. In his open debut, Dominic competed with powerlifting elites from all corners of the globe and obtained the following stellar results:
- Squat: 265kg (584lbs)
- Bench press: 167.5kg (369lbs)
- Deadlift: 342.5kg (755lbs) – bronze medal
- Total: 775kg (1,709lbs)
He finished at 6th position, placing him within the top ten rankings globally.
Dominic took some time out of his intense training regimen to share some experiences, insights, wisdom gained, and lessons learned from his powerlifting journey so far.
Q: What is the significance of the upcoming IPF World Open Powerlifting Championships to you?
A: “…it’s definitely an important competition for me. It’s the biggest one I’m going to be doing this year. And it’s just something that I want to continue to use as a platform to not only get my name out there, but also to continue representing Guyana.”
He acknowledges that while injuries and disrupted preparation have limited his training progress, remaining within the top ten is his primary aim, along with proudly representing Guyana internationally once again.
Q: What are the Goals you wish to realize?
A: “I aspire to surpass my previous personal record, aiming to break the significant 800kg total barrier. I would like to be the first lifter from South America in the 83kg class to reach such a landmark.
I also have my eyes on surpassing several national records, particularly focusing on the squat record currently held by Romeo Hunter (272.5kg), alongside improving my existing deadlift and total records.
So those are the goals along with the top 10 finish and that would be an excellent day for me.”
Q: What are some of the hurdles you’ve had to overcome along the way?
A: “Early 2025 I battled a severe illness that led to significant weight loss, debilitating symptoms, and mental strain. This difficult period was compounded by the loss of my grandmother, to whom I promised would see me one day compete in-person. Adjusting to life in France has also been a test of resilience for me. So those are the things that I’ve overcome by God’s grace. I’m here today healthy and happy. Can’t wait.”
Q: What would you like to say about your support base?
A: I am thankful for my family’s unwavering encouragement. My dad shares all my achievements and competitions online. My partner also is extremely supportive. Gratitude is also extended to my fans, supporters on social media, and members of the Guyanese Powerlifting Federation.
I’m really humbled to know that there are people who are genuinely following my progress.”
Q: What are some lessons that you wish to share with others
“After experiencing remarkable success in the previous year, I encountered unexpected setbacks that reminded me of life’s unpredictability. It taught me the importance of remaining grounded, to appreciate current achievements without becoming overly attached to continuous success, and to recognize the inevitability of highs and lows.”
Dominic stresses that humility and resilience are vital qualities, enabling individuals to remain mentally strong regardless of external circumstances. He hopes to inspire others, particularly within the powerlifting community, to adopt a similarly resilient and humble outlook.
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Powerlifting is a strength-based sport focusing on three major lifts: the squat, bench press and deadlift. It is still a niche sport in Guyana and abroad, with a dedicated and passionate following of lifters and their supporters.
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