Howick College’s Max Louw has earned quite a reputation, breaking three regional records and taking gold at the Auckland Powerlifting competition.
The Year 13 student competed in the Men’s Sub-Junior (under 19) 83kg category at the competition on April 15 where he broke the Auckland record for both the squat and deadlift.
He had a squat lift of 212.5kg and a deadlift of 250kg which ultimately led to him taking out the gold medal.
Powerlifting is a strength sport which consists of three attempts at maximal weight on three lifts – squat, bench press, and deadlift.
Max says after his success, he was almost feeling a little sad. “I worked so hard these past few months with this one goal in mind and when that day (the competition) was finally over I felt a little like, where do I go from here?” he says.
Despite the brief moment of uncertainty, Max says he was completely taken aback by the extent of support received from the community and his school.
“Powerlifting is not (yet) a major sport in New Zealand, and so I didn’t expect many people to take note of my achievement. However, the number of teachers and students – some of whom I’ve never spoken to in my life – who congratulated me made me feel really supported,” he says.
Max also broke the overall record with his total of three lifts coming to 585kg and is now being considered for selection for the New Zealand team to compete at the World Powerlifting Championships in Romania later this year.
Only one person in the country in Max’s under 83kg sub-junior division has a higher combined total (of bench press, squat and deadlift) than him currently.
There are nine positions available in the sub-junior and junior New Zealand squads to compete at the World Powerlifting Championships in Romania and it is likely many of those won’t be filled due to the cost of competing.
“Not only would it be an amazing opportunity for myself, but it would also be a great honour to me and my community to represent New Zealand at Worlds. Last year we had no New Zealand sub-juniors competing in the World Champs and so it would be awesome to put New Zealand and east Auckland on the map,” he says.
Max credits his success to his parents, coach John Strachan, friends, the Get Strength gym and the Fortis Fitness CrossFit gym.
“I am so lucky to have such supportive parents who are as invested in my sport as I am. I have also been blown away by how friendly and supportive the powerlifting scene is,” he says.
He began his powerlifting journey as a quiet and overweight year nine kid in the CrossFit gym, Fortis Fitness in Beachlands.
“I was a little intimidated to go as I thought I would be judged for my appearance and my lack of fitness, but I met some of the most supportive and kind people,” Max says.
Max’s mum, Penny Kokot Louw, says she couldn’t be prouder of Max.
“I also want to thank Howick College for providing Max with an amazing school environment that has been hugely supportive of his overall development in all areas and has given him many opportunities to shine,” she says.
Max is also a co-leader of the Minerva House at Howick College, peer supporter and coach for the school’s junior football team.
His house deans Kirsty Gillet and Mark Hodson say Max is an exceptional individual who sets a positive example for both his peers and younger students.
“We hold Max in high regard, particularly his work ethic, modesty and grounded demeanour. It’s clear that his attitude and behaviour serve as an inspiration to those around him and his leadership and character are valuable assets to our school community. We are so proud of Max and his achievements,” they say.
Max says one of his main goals is to represent New Zealand at another world championship in the junior (under 23s) category.
“This category is more competitive than the sub-junior category, as many more people get into powerlifting after high school,” he says.
Max’s success wouldn’t be possible without his coach, John Strachan who he says he has built a real bond with.
“I would also like to make a special mention to my gym buddy Adam Riley as he has spotted me hundreds of times and makes my workouts entertaining,” he says.
As Max switches his focus to the World Powerlifting Championships in September, he is looking for sponsors to help get him to Romania.
“Powerlifting in New Zealand is a self-funded sport and Romania is very far away. You can imagine this is difficult for those in the sub-junior and junior categories, which mostly consist of teens and young adults who are likely not that well-resourced, such as myself,” he says.
The trip for Max and his mum is estimated to cost at least $10,000.
“I would be extremely grateful for any kind of support as this is quite a lot of money for a high school student,” Max says.
A Givealittle page has been set up for Max’s trip and can be found via the link givealittle.co.nz/cause/get-max-to-romania-for-powerlifting-worlds.
Similarly, if people want to help Max on his journey but are unable to donate, he asks to spread the word about his fundraiser.
You can follow Max’s powerlifting journey through the Instagram account ‘maxlouwlifts’ or using the link www.instagram.com/maxlouwlifts/.
