By Jonah Gilmore
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ELKHORN, Neb. (KETV) – In Elkhorn, a 13-year-old girl is conquering the sport of weightlifting and is now a two-time national champion with a mission to win more.
Heavy weights are trained at the Conqueror Weightlifting gym, and for 13-year-old Chassity Del Balso, it’s light work.
“I got involved with my father. He competed in weightlifting competitions and stuff like that, and that just influenced me,” Chassity said.
The teenager not only trains, but also competes in the US Weightlifting Championships.
The banners hanging on the wall inside Conquer Weightlifting are a testament to their skills.
“I competed in the national youth championship, was in the 13 under 64 plus age group and won first place,” Chassity said.
It is the second time Chassity has competed on a national stage and received the top honor. Her father and coach CJ Del Balso said it was a feat he had been preparing her for since she was four years old.
“It’s nice to see those efforts pay off and her apply them on big stages, you know, winning national championships. Performing under pressure and then performing well when she needs it most is very exciting and rewarding for a coach,” said Del Balso.
He said it was a lot of fun watching his child enjoy a sport he loves.
“I definitely have to push her sometimes, you know, just like any little kid. Sometimes she doesn’t feel like training, but she likes the results of the competitions. That’s the motivator, so to speak. If you want to participate in these meetings, you have to prepare,” said Del Balso.
During this prep, Chassity lifts 132 pounds in her twat, and when it comes to getting it clean and jerked, she can lift 172 pounds.
“A lot of people are crowding your way and there’s a lot of pressure on you. Plus, it feels great when you win, but when you lose, you know what to do next time,” Chassity said.
Deadlifts are not part of the competition, but her personal best is 264.
“She is currently the best athlete in the United States in her age and weight class,” Del Balso said.
Chassity considers herself an all-round athlete and plays school sports when she is not training. She said even when she is in school, she shows her strength.
“When the teachers ask me to do something or take this on, they always say, ‘Oh my God, Chassity, you’re so strong.’ I’m like, oh yeah, I’m training.
She thanks her mother and father for making it to this point.
“Just a blessing from God,” Chassity said.
She hopes to inspire other kids her age by proving that being heavy is a mindset and all you have to do is dream big and lift weights.
“You just have to commit to it and you’ll get there,” Chassity said.
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