The APA Nationals 2025 in Perth, Australia, is set to be one of the most electrifying powerlifting events in the country to date. Bringing together the strongest athletes nationwide, this championship serves as a battleground for national titles and international qualification. With lifters competing across multiple weight classes in both men’s and women’s divisions, the competition promises intense rivalries, redemption arcs, and record-breaking performances. Whether seasoned veterans defending their dominance or rising stars pushing their limits, each class presents unique storylines. Fans can expect a showcase of strength, strategy, and resilience, making the APA Nationals 2025 an unmissable event in Australian powerlifting.
Women’s Divisions
47kg Class –
Vicky Kijumnuayporn, Australia’s dominant force in the 47kg division, is stepping onto the national platform with redemption on her mind after a heartbreaking bomb-out at the World Championships due to elbow depth issues on bench. Since then, she has made significant technical adjustments, including switching to heeled shoes, which has vastly improved her squat depth and consistency. Training numbers indicate strong progress, with her squat reaching 147.5kg. Her deadlift has also improved in recent weeks, particularly in translating high-rep endurance into competition-ready singles. C Matty B noted that this is the best she has looked since training at Breakthrough. As the sole competitor in her class, Vicky’s focus at Nationals will likely be a perfect 9-for-9 performance, setting the stage for an even bigger international showing. If she executes as expected, she could position herself as a serious world medal contender.
52kg Class –
The 52kg division at APA Nationals 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive battles of the event, with four lifters all within striking distance of the title. Liz Craven enters as the favourite with a nominated total of 410.5kg, primed for a pursuit of the 148kg squat record. Her recent switch to heeled shoes has improved her depth, and she looks primed for a strong showing. Close behind is Xinyu Liang, a deadlift specialist with a 400kg nominated total, who has been refining her squat under Matty B’s guidance to eliminate past depth inconsistencies. Kate Nax, returning from a hamstring injury, has made a bold move to sumo deadlifting, and if her new technique holds up in competition, she could challenge for a podium spot. Meanwhile, Ainsley Jones has demonstrated immense potential, with training suggesting she could disrupt the expected rankings with a podium finish. The key to victory in this class will be consistency and smart attempt selection, with each lifter needing to execute flawlessly to claim the title.
57kg Class –
The 57kg division will be a battle of experience versus rising talent, as national deadlift record holder Kirsty Lei prepares to defend her title against junior standout Cindy Zheng. Kirsty, known for her 192.5kg deadlift, has long dominated this category with her consistency and ability to execute under pressure. However, Cindy, cutting down from the 63kg class, has put up remarkable numbers in training, including a 170kg squat and a 95kg bench, making her a serious threat to the reigning champion. Adding another layer of intrigue is Samantha Kratz, who is making her return to competition after maternity leave. With a previous best total of 407.5kg, she has shown signs of regaining her pre-pregnancy strength and could be a wildcard in this battle. With Elicia Cantelo rounding out the field, the final outcome in this division could come down to the last deadlift, where Cindy’s aggressive attempts could either propel her to victory or leave the door open for Kirsty’s experience to secure another national title.
63kg Class –
The 63kg division at APA Nationals 2025 is expected to be a tactical showdown between Schae Zarew and Abby Wallis, two lifters with vastly different strengths. Schae, known for her methodical approach and consistent performance, brings a 488kg nominated total to the competition, relying on precision and execution. In contrast, Abby’s nominated total of 455kg puts her seemingly in second place but with her recent training being in private we may just see some jumps pushing her into a fighting chance. Meanwhile, Kathleen Beggs lurks as a podium contender, her reputation for going 9-for-9 in competition making her a reliable presence in high-pressure situations. With Abby likely to play an aggressive strategy with her third attempts, this class could come down to fine margins, making attempt selection and composure on the platform critical in determining the champion.
69kg Class –
With Brittany sidelined due to injury, the 69kg division at APA Nationals 2025 has become one of the most unpredictable contests of the event. Stepping up from the 63kg class, Alexandra Bonner looks to establish herself in the heavier division, boasting a massive 180kg squat. Aislinn Ottway, another serious contender, has displayed incredible endurance in deadlifts, with a recent 197.5kg pull showing she could challenge for the podium in a closely fought contest. Meanwhile, Rachel Elm's steady improvement, with her total rising from 432.5kg to 452.5kg, puts her firmly in the mix. With no clear frontrunner, this division will likely be decided by consistency and adaptability on the day, making every attempt count in the race for the national title.
76kg Class –
Shania Radke with a nominated total of 480kg enters the 76kg division with one goal: securing the qualifying total required for the World Championships. Her path to victory, however, will not be easy, as several lifters look poised to challenge her dominance. Hannah Altman, formerly a 69kg competitor, has made significant strength gains in her new weight class, including a 180kg squat and 115+ kg bench that puts her right in the mix. Meanwhile, Yoon Ling Kilgannon transitions from the junior ranks with a formidable squat and a nominated total of 462.5kg, proving she has the strength to make an impact at the open level. Adding even more tension is Evangeline Mouratidis, whose 200kg deadlift makes her a potential wildcard if she is close enough after squats and bench. With multiple lifters capable of putting up big numbers, this class will be a fierce battle for both the national title and international qualification.
84kg –
The 84kg division will see a compelling battle between veteran Yan-fei Zhao (Yani) and rising contender Nickola Orr, as the two lifters bring contrasting strengths to the platform. Yani, relying on her experience and technical precision, boasts a massive 200+kg squat, making her a formidable force in the division. Nickola, on the other hand, has transformed her lifting style with a highly efficient sumo deadlift, looking to use her pulling strength to close any gaps created in squats and bench. The withdrawal of Bethany Parker has left the final podium spot up for grabs, with several competitors vying for a place on the national stage. With each lifter bringing different strengths, this division will likely be decided by who can execute their lifts most consistently under pressure.
84kg+ Class –
The battle for supremacy in the 84kg+ division will be headlined by Natalie Laalaai and Luseane Lafaele, two lifters known for their immense pulling power and aggressive competition strategies. Natalie enters the contest with a massive 285kg deadlift, complemented by a strategic approach that allows her to maximize her total with well-planned attempts. Luseane, however, thrives on high-risk, high-reward lifting, regularly taking bold third attempts, including a 257.5kg pull that puts her right in the mix. Meanwhile, Rebecca Blenkin remains a strong contender for bronze, with her impressive 512.5kg total and a solid 110kg bench making her a well-rounded competitor. With the top two lifters closely matched, the national title may come down to a battle of tactics, as each attempts to outmaneuver the other on the platform.
Men’s Divisions
59kg Class –
Joenas Madera enters APA Nationals 2025 as the defending champion in the 59kg division, bringing a 560kg nominated total that sets him apart from the competition. However, his path to victory will not be uncontested, as Daniel Lee and Kyohei Yasuoka, both sitting at 532.5kg, look to mount a challenge. Daniel’s biggest weapon is his massive deadlift, which could allow him to make a late push if he is within striking distance after squats and bench. Meanwhile, Kyohei’s strategic approach and patience on the platform make him a threat, especially if his rivals make mistakes. Given the tight margins, the silver and bronze medals will likely be determined by who can capitalize on their attempts, while Joenas aims for a flawless day to secure another national title.
66kg Class –
One of the most tightly contested divisions at APA Nationals 2025, the 66kg class sees Chris Yip (647.5kg), Andrew Trieu (642.5kg), and Yuki Kashima (638.5kg) locked in a battle where every lift will matter. Chris, known for his massive deadlift, will look to close any gaps on squat and bench before making his move in the final round. Andrew, the most well-balanced of the trio, has shown steady improvements across all three lifts and may have the most consistent approach to securing the title. Yuki, a technical master with an impressive bench, has struggled with depth calls in past competitions, and his ability to execute squats cleanly will be crucial. With the top three lifters separated by just 9kg, this division is expected to come down to the final deadlifts, making for one of the most thrilling contests of the event.
74kg Class –
The 74kg division at APA Nationals 2025 will be a battle between Keyan Babaei-Somaghi and Leonardo (Leo) Sucitra, two lifters with contrasting strengths and approaches to competition. Keyan, known for his explosive deadlift, is seeking redemption after inconsistent performances in previous meets. At the SBD Cup, he pulled an impressive 272.5kg, but his history of missing crucial deadlifts in competition remains a concern. In contrast, Leo enters as the favourite, boasting a highly consistent 736.5kg total. His methodical approach to lifting and precise execution make him a tough competitor to beat. Meanwhile, Thomas Del Rasio lurks as a potential upset candidate, with a 300kg deadlift in training suggesting he could challenge for a podium spot. With Keyan’s aggression, Leo’s calculated strategy, and Thomas’s wildcard potential, this division is set for a thrilling showdown.
83kg Class –
The 83kg division is packed with talent, with multiple lifters pushing elite-level totals and bringing different strengths to the competition. Nathan Tanis leads the nominations with an 800kg total, anchored by a massive 327.5kg deadlift. His technical precision and experience make him the favourite heading into the event. Cana Chambara, sitting just behind at 792.5kg, is another powerhouse, with the potential to challenge Nathan if he executes well on squat and bench. Emilio Caliao, a seasoned veteran returning from knee issues, has been steadily rebuilding his total, while James Le, a dark horse in the competition, has been pushing his deadlift to the 300kg mark in training, we should see these two fight it out for the podium. With every lifter in this class bringing a different strength to the platform, the final standings will come down to execution under pressure and strategic attempt selection.
93kg Class –
The 93kg division is a clash of comebacks and emerging dominance, with Josh Tukua and Adam Jones set to face off in a compelling matchup. Josh, returning from some knee issues, is relying on his trademark grit and a massive 330kg deadlift to keep him in contention. Meanwhile, Adam has been making waves in training, recently posting an 810kg total, which signals he is ready to challenge for the top spot. Adding another element to the competition is Callan Gibbons, whose grip-dependent 320+kg deadlift has been a talking point leading into Nationals. If his grip holds up on the day, he could disrupt the expected rankings. With Josh aiming for a strong comeback, Adam pushing to assert himself as the new dominant force, and Callan hoping to capitalize on his strengths, this division is shaping up to be one of the most exciting of the event.
105kg Class –
The 105kg class will see an intense battle between Hung Phan and Michael Rand, two lifters who bring contrasting approaches to competition. Hung is widely regarded as the deadlift specialist of the division, with a staggering 351kg pull that makes him a serious threat for the title. His ability to close significant gaps on the final lift means his competitors cannot afford to make mistakes. On the other side, Michael is known for his explosive lifting, highlighted by a stronger bench that gives him a significant advantage. Defending champion Samuel Forsberg, with an 822.5kg total, will also be in the mix, possibly eyeing his deadlift to keep him competitive. This class will be determined by execution, as Hung’s pulling power, Michael’s bench, and Sam’s experience as the defending champion collide in a high-stakes battle.
120kg Class –
The 120kg division at APA Nationals 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in the men’s category, featuring lifters Sam Butterworth, Josh Lanivia, Tristan Sunde, and Cody Wilks as the frontrunners. Despite being nominated fourth, Cody has demonstrated the potential to challenge the leading names, with previous competition performances indicating that he left some kilos on the platform due to missed attempts. His massive squat and deadlift could bring him into contention for a podium finish if he executes cleanly. Sam has steadily closed the gap on Josh. His performance at the SBD Australia Cup, where he went 9-for-9, was a clear testament to his steady improvements. This approach makes him a strong contender for the title, particularly if he can replicate that level of execution on the national stage. Josh, meanwhile, has showcased great bench press strength, but his deadlift execution remains the biggest question mark. Tristan, fresh out of juniors, is expected to perform well, with his previous totals around 850kg+ suggesting he will push the top three hard. While he might not yet have the strength to take the title, his consistent execution and ability to go near 9-for-9 in competitions make him a dangerous opponent if the leaders falter. With multiple lifters capable of exceeding 850-870kg totals, this division is expected to be decided by attempt selection and execution on the day, making for one of the most thrilling battles of the competition.
120kg+ Class –
The 120kg+ division will feature a compelling redemption story as Jackson Stubberfield returns from knee surgery, aiming to secure his spot at the World Championships with a massive 885kg total. Jackson’s training has been promising, with a smooth deadlift showing that he is back in peak form. His biggest challenge will be ensuring he executes across all three lifts, as missing attempts could hinder international qualification. With the added pressure of international qualification on the line, this event will be a true test of his resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
As the dust settles on the APA Nationals 2025, the competition will have left behind a lasting impact on the Australian powerlifting scene. Every division featured thrilling battles, with lifters pushing past adversity, breaking records, and proving their strength under immense pressure. From redemption stories to emerging champions, this event showcased the dedication and perseverance of Australia’s top athletes. For some, the journey continues toward the world stage, while for others, the focus shifts to refining their craft for another shot at victory next year. Regardless of the results, one thing is certain—the APA Nationals 2025 has once again reinforced the ever-growing depth of talent in Australian powerlifting and set the stage for even greater performances in the future.
Find all session times via the Schedule and watch the entire competition live on the APA Youtube Channel!
If you're in Perth come and watch the competition live at the Rendezvous Hotel Scarborough! Tickets can be purchased on the day.