CCU student breaks powerlifting world records

Tyi Richards, a senior sociology major at Coastal Carolina University, is finishing up her last week of training in the HTC Center in preparation for the Amateur World Powerlifting Congress (AWPC) Worlds Competition on Sept. 8. She will travel to Lisle, Ill., to represent Team USA.

Back in May, Richards competed in the Amateur American Powerlifting Federation (AAPF) Nationals competition and won first place in junior class and 181 pound weight class. She also placed first in the women’s open 181 pound weight class.

Adding to her already impressive accomplishments, she recently broke seven world records in squats, deadlift and total weight. Right now, her current total lift is 959 pounds.

Richards spends her day balancing academics, powerlifting and working at the HTC Center. It is not easy, but she says she makes it work and does her best to get her assignments done early.

“I remember meeting her at Orientation in 2016,” said Jody Davis, director of university recreation. “She was standing in the hallway staring at the weights upstairs. I hired her on the spot and the rest is history. She is a very popular staff member here, and her records indicate she represents Coastal Carolina well.”

Richards began powerlifting about a year ago when the track team was cut at her last school. “I had always been passionate about lifting, and I just decided to take it to the next level,” she said. Sticking to a strict gym schedule can be tough, but Richards says it makes showing off her hard work at each competition worth it.

She highly encourages other students to try out powerlifting or any new activity they want to pursue. “If you are passionate about it, go for it,” she said. “Don't wait until the last minute. Follow your dream!”

Powerlifting keeps Richards busy, but she is very focused on her career goals. After graduation in May, she plans to apply for an internship with the FBI with the hopes of one day working there.