LIFTER OF THE MONTH, APRIL 2026, KIM VAN WAGNER
April featured the USAWA Grip Championship, Bench Press Heptathlon, Diamond Jubilee and Diaper Day. While the Diamond Jubilee and Diaper Day results are pending there were some outstanding performances in the published results.
Kim Van Wagner earned lifter of the month by being the top female in the 1st Quarter Postal and the top female (and overall) winner of the USAWA Grip Championship. Kim currently holds 139 records and is threatening to break into the top 10 women’s record holders. Kim has results going back to the 2022 1st Quarter Postal but has only been able to set records since the Bench Press Heptathlon in 2024.
Kim joined the USAWA under the Clark’s Gym banner but has joined High Country Vigour, with Bill Clark’s blessing. She always shows outstanding sportsmanship and personal integrity. At the 2026 USAWA Grip Championship, the official gave a down command on the vertical bar lift and Kim simply responded that it was a no-lift as her left knee was not locked out.
Congratulations Kim!
Do you know a USAWA member who should be recognized as lifter of the month? Send nominations to the acting Secretary at usawasec@gmail.com