Jan 16, 2012

The first lift contested in a weightlifting competition. A lifter takes a wide grip on the bar, stands up while aggressively accelerating the bar, drives him/herself into a squat position. The lifter stands with locked out arms to complete the lift.

May be referred to as a Squat Snatch or Full Snatch
Often abbreviated S

The 2011 Collegiate Nationals were full of excitement, records, and mishap. The turnout was quite large for year’s meet, including many of America’s top weightlifters. Most notably, Kendrick Farris (85kg) and Jared Fleming (94kg) set collegiate and junior records respectively. Many of the weight classes were highly competitive, with a few of the men’s classes being split into A and B groups to due the high turnout.

The competitive nature of the meet lead to many lifters attempting to use every trick in the book to get ahead. Many lifters were making every possible change to their weights both before they took their openers and during the meet. This lead to confusion among meet administrators, as well as some delays. Often time the bar would remain empty for long periods of time while administrators attempted to sort out who was supposed to be lifting and with what weight. The loaders did a commendable job keeping track of what weight was supposed to be on the bar and executed their job with speed.

The judges were not kind at this meet, enforcing the strictest adherence to the rules possible. The slightest wobble in elbow lockout was red lighted, causing frustration for many lifters. Despite these setbacks the best collegiate athletes were able to participate and demonstrate the best the had to offer. Despite the drama, the meet was a distinct success.