[Author’s note: Grace Tacuyan Witt, who is mentioned in this article, is my former powerlifting coach. I’m strong – pretty darn strong – because of her. She’s an athlete through and through who continues to make Guam proud]
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Guam has some very talented and strong powerlifters. Whenever a powerlifting athlete heads off island for a competition, the chances are pretty high she or he will be coming home with a medal. And while this is instant promotion and headlines for our island, powerlifters do not get funding support from Guam National Olympic Committee or the Guam Visitors Bureau. All their expenses – the thousands on plane tickets, lodging, food, limited gym membership – come out of their pockets.
Grace Tacuyan-Witt, Guam’s only certified powerlifting coach and a gold medal winner several times over, is leading a team of 11 from Guam to a Las Vegas competition in April. According to the GoFundMe page she created, the athletes range in age from 15 to 46. They will pay for most of their expenses. Combined, they just need $5,000 to get over the hump.
Please share this article and donate whatever you can to their cause.
Here is the link to the GoFundMe page: Empower Guam’s Powerlifters: donate today!
The write up on that page from Ms. Tacuyan-Witt follows for easy reference:
Buenas and Hafa Adai!!! I am a powerlifting coach from the island of Guam and I’m here to ask for help with fundraising for my team. Please join us in supporting our powerlifters as they embark on a monumental journey to represent Guam in Las Vegas, NV in April.
The team of 11 lifters range from 15 years old to 46 years old. For some of these competitors, it will be their first time making their wait to the mainland. This isn’t just an opportunity to represent the island in this sport, but also serves as an opportunity to have an experience they only imagined. We are organizing a fundraiser to help cover travel expenses, as the average cost of one plane ticket is about $1600. Funds raised will go to the following:
1) Plane tickets (for those who cannot afford the full price of the ticket)
2) Housing
3) Car rental
4) Any extra travel expenses
Your generosity will not only aid these athletes in reaching their dreams but also showcase the strength and spirit of Guam. We are immensely grateful for the outpouring of support and kindness we have received thus far. Thank you for helping us make this unforgettable experience possible. You aren’t just supporting financially, but also supporting an amazing team full of heart, spirit and love.
Side note:
As a coach, this opportunity for my athletes means more than just competing—it’s about growth, resilience, and the chance to showcase their hard work and dedication on a global stage. Seeing my athletes represent Guam in Las Vegas isn’t just a moment of pride; it’s a testament to their relentless pursuit of excellence and the unwavering support of our community. This journey symbolizes the culmination of countless hours of training, sacrifices made, and obstacles overcome. Witnessing them step onto that platform is a profound reminder of why I coach—to inspire, to empower, and to witness the transformative power of sport firsthand.
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