World-ranked powerlifter pushes through ‘large nation bias’

WHILE SHE had the opportunity of a lifetime, competing at the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) World Open Classic Powerlifting Championships, Sami DePass said her experience was marred by ‘large-nation’ bias from the event’s commentators.

DePass was fourth in the women’s 76kg class at the world championships earlier this month in her second-ever appearance at the competition.

The three-time reigning Jamaican national champion said it was a massive achievement for her, yet she felt much of her development was overlooked in favour of competitors from larger countries.

“Large nation bias is displayed in many ways. I think the most impactful way is the lack of focus on the development of athletes from smaller countries,” she said.

“The commentary towards athletes of smaller nations tends to be rushed and sometimes even focused on other athletes while that athlete is lifting.

She added, “It can be very discouraging, but the truth is you have to press on regardless.”

Despite the negatives, she said the opportunity to represent Jamaica at the World Championships is a major milestone in her career.

She also said her achievements can help to bring more attention to powerlifting in the Caribbean region.

“To compete at the world championships was a dream come true. To be the first to do anything is a lot of pressure, but I take great pride in representing my nation on that level. There’s very very few Caribbean islands represented on the world stage.

“It makes me feel proud that Jamaica is at the forefront of pushing the sport forward in this region. I never take for granted being able to compete on that stage.”

The next step in her career will be to begin preparations to defend her North American title at the North American Regional Powerlifting Championships set to begin next month.

She will end her year at the National Championships in November where she is aiming for a fourth-straight win, following her previous victories in 2021, 2022 and 2023.

“The future for me looks really bright, in my opinion,” she said.

“I’m looking forward to defending my North American title in August 2024. After that I will compete at Jamaica Nationals in November 2024 to lock in my spot for international competitions in 2025.

“After that the schedule for next year still remains open and I will hopefully qualify again for Worlds 2025.”