SHEPHERDSTOWN, W.Va. -- An eighth grader at Shepherdstown Middle School (SMS) has chosen to use her passion for powerlifting to lift up others. Brynlie Austin recently raised over $1,000 for the Special Olympics through her Lifting for Loved Ones fundraising initiative.
Brynlie began competitive powerlifting in 2019 and is now one of the top female powerlifters in her age group. She enjoys the support and camaraderie of the powerlifting community.
"They've become like a second family for us," said Mason Austin, Brynlie's father and gym partner.
In 2022, Brynlie and her mother, Shepherdstown Elementary School teacher Nicole Austin, created Lifting for Loved Ones, a fundraising initiative that enabled Brynlie to combine her hobby with a desire to help others. Brynlie designated the funds raised during one of her Lifting for Loved Ones powerlifting meets to the American Cancer Society, raising $700 for the charity.
Brynlie continued her fundraising efforts this year, raising $1,100 for the Special Olympics through the Iron Maiden II, an annual all-female powerlifting competition.
As she continues her powerlifting training, Brynlie hopes to hold future Lifting for Loved Ones fundraisers to help raise money and awareness for different organizations in need.
“I think it’s important to give back to others because some people go through hard times, and they may need the money,” she said.
Header Photo: Brynlie Austin with her father, Mason Austin, and Marcus Leggett, president of logistics and events for Special Olympics of Virginia Beach