New Hope-Solebury High School Senior Braden Mertz to Compete in International Powerlifting Championships

Braden Mertz, a rising senior at New Hope-Solebury High School, will represent Team USA at the 19th Pan-American / 22nd North American Regional Men’s Classic Powerlifting Championships on Wednesday, July 29 in the Cayman Islands. Mertz will compete in the Sub-junior Classic 74-kilogram (163-pound) weight class against top lifters from across North America.

The 17-year-old earned his spot on Team USA after winning the Pennsylvania State Championship in April and qualifying at the national event held in Reno, Nevada, in May. He is currently ranked 11th in the world in his division according to Open Powerlifting.

Classic powerlifting includes three core lifts: the squat, bench press, and deadlift. Athletes have three attempts in each lift. The highest successful lift in each category is combined to form a total score. Results are then adjusted based on body weight to determine overall rankings, with medals awarded to the top three competitors. Mertz's combined goal is 635 kilograms (approximately 1,399 pounds).

Mertz’s powerlifting journey began in sixth grade, inspired by his older brother, Cameron. What started as strength training to improve his baseball game evolved into a passion for powerlifting after he joined New Hope Fitness, where his work ethic stood out and his passion for the sport was nurtured.

For the last two years, Mertz has been coached by Gabe Rosen, a former competitive powerlifter from Warrington, Pennsylvania. Rosen customizes Mertz’s training regime to ensure consistent progress and prevent plateaus.

“Overall, I’m hoping my competitors bring their best and that it’s a close contest. Ultimately, of course, I want to come out victorious,” said Mertz, who will be traveling to the Cayman Islands with his mom, Melanie. “It’s a bit unbelievable that something that started as a hobby has led me to an international competition. I’m grateful to my family and friends for their support, to coach Gabe for his wisdom and guidance and to New Hope Fitness owner Dan Kramli for his encouragement.”

Braden’s competition is scheduled to be live streamed on the North American Powerlifting Federation YouTube channel on July 29 starting at 3 p.m. EDT.