Local youth targets international milestone
An 11-year-old West Valley City student is preparing to attempt a world-class powerlifting feat that has drawn attention beyond the neighborhood gym. Siua Tongi Jr., a sixth grader who trains at a local facility, is set to compete this weekend aiming to surpass the current youth total record recognized in organized lifting circles.
Coached and supported by family, Tongi has posted lifts that put him among the strongest lifters in his age group. He currently bench presses 225 pounds, squats 315 pounds and deadlifts 335 pounds, numbers that organizers and observers say put him in contention to challenge the existing standard for young lifters.
| Lift | Reported Weight |
|---|---|
| Bench press | 225 lb |
| Squat | 315 lb |
| Deadlift | 335 lb |
Record pursuit and preparation
The focus for competition is a combined total across the three lifts. The current USAPL-type record cited in coverage is a total of 683 pounds, held by a 12-year-old competitor in the United Kingdom. Tongi is aiming to exceed that mark in the upcoming meet.
In the lead-up to the event, training has emphasized recovery and competition readiness. Tongi, described as soft-spoken outside the gym, said simply of the prospect of breaking a record:
"I'll just be happy."
His demeanor contrasts with the attention his lifts have attracted online and from some professional athletes. Family members say their approach is to prioritize proper technique and safety as young lifters progress.
Family, coaching and local training environment
Tongi trains at Polynesian Strength under the supervision of family members who have long been involved in weight training. His uncle, Noa Tongi, introduced Siua and his brother to structured training and helps oversee development.
Siua's 13-year-old brother, Sateki, also trains and competes in his own age division. Sateki described how family culture and access to the gym influenced their participation: "We've seen our uncles always going to the gym, so we always ask if we can go to the gym with them, and we're doing it for football too," he said.
- Training focus: Coaches emphasize technique, consistency and healthy habits before increasing weight.
- Safety measures: Family and gym coaches say education on proper form is a priority.
- Competitive structure: Youth powerlifting includes age divisions so children and teens compete against peers.
Context and community reaction
The Tongi family's involvement highlights broader conversations within West Valley City and beyond about children in strength sports. Organizers of sanctioned youth meets create divisions and regulations intended to protect young athletes, and families and coaches interviewed locally emphasized safety and a stepwise approach to training.
Members of the West Valley City community who frequent local gyms say youth participation in weight training has increased, often tied to youth football and other sports that value strength development. Those coaching younger athletes say the goal is to build long-term habits and technique rather than chasing heavy lifts prematurely.
As competition day approaches, Siua's focus remains straightforward: to compete, attempt the lifts he has rehearsed, and be content if he reaches his target. The event will be a moment for West Valley City residents to watch a local youth navigate the intersection of family support, community training resources and the organized sport of powerlifting.
The outcome of his attempt will be reported after the competition, with attention likely to remain on how West Valley City's training programs and families support young athletes seeking to compete at higher levels.
