Petersburg Teen Sets Powerlifting Record, Qualifies for Nationals

Gabriele Whitacre's record-breaking bench press lift earns her a spot at the USA Powerlifting National Championships.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Petersburg High School senior Gabriele Whitacre recently set a new state record in the bench press at the USA Powerlifting State Championships in Anchorage. Whitacre lifted 187.4 pounds in the women's teen division, breaking the previous record and qualifying her for the upcoming national competition.

Why it matters

Whitacre's achievement is a significant accomplishment for the small town of Petersburg, Alaska, highlighting the success of its youth athletes and the strength of its powerlifting program. Her qualification for the national championships also puts the spotlight on the growing popularity of powerlifting among high school athletes.

The details

Whitacre, who began her powerlifting journey just a year ago, set the new state record with her 187.4-pound bench press lift at the USA Powerlifting State Championships in Anchorage on February 7, 2026. This surpassed the previous record in the women's teen division.

  • Whitacre set the USA Powerlifting State record for bench press in the women's teen division on February 7, 2026.
  • The USA Powerlifting National Championships will take place later this year.

The players

Gabriele Whitacre

A senior at Petersburg High School in Alaska who recently set a new state record in the bench press at the USA Powerlifting State Championships, qualifying her for the national competition.

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What they’re saying

“I'm so proud of Gabriele and all the hard work she's put in. This is a huge accomplishment for her and our whole community.”

— Jenna Whitacre, Gabriele's mother (Petersburg Pilot)

What’s next

Gabriele Whitacre will compete at the USA Powerlifting National Championships later this year, where she will look to build on her state record-breaking performance.

The takeaway

Whitacre's success in powerlifting showcases the talent and dedication of young athletes in small towns like Petersburg, Alaska, and the positive impact that sports programs can have on a community.