Last year, COVID-19 robbed former Senatobia student-athlete Kennith Moore of a chance to win a state title.
But last month, Moore got his shot at redemption, winning a national championship in the 53 kg. class at the 2021 USA Powerlifting Collegiate Nationals in Baton Rouge, La.
“I had no idea when Spring Break arrived that I was not going to return to competition,” Moore recalled, on his senior season. “We had just returned from the Class 3A North Half meet in Kossuth. I was projected to win the state title in my class and it was a difficult thing to process, knowing that I wouldn’t have that chance to win a ring or compete.”
Moore was dealt a double whammy during the shutdown, as he also competed in Senatobia’s successful track and field program, which was also slated to contend for another state title.
However, things started to look up for Moore a few months later after signing to compete in powerlifting at the collegiate level. He competed in several collegiate meets with Blue Mountain College, placing first in several meets to earn a qualifying bid to last month’s Collegiate Nationals.
“College meets are different,” Moore said, on his preparation. “I had to lose 15-17 pounds to get down to my weight class for meets. I really struggled with that sometimes, but lifting is not about how strong you are. It’s a mind game. If you tell yourself you can do it, then you can, as long as you put in the preparation and the time.”
Moore’s preparation certainly paid off, but it didn’t come without adversity. From competing against teammates, coaching changes and maintaining his weight class, Moore says many doubts filled his head before the April competition.
However, what he had on his side was more powerful than any physical obstacles.
“I had a strong support system from my family, and I also had my trust in my faith,” Moore said. “Even though a lot of people counted me out, God counted me in. I knew I was going to nationals with a chip on my shoulder and a lot to prove. Once I did my first squat, I was overwhelmed with emotion. I started feeling better and more focused.”
With a national title in the bag, the journey will continue for Moore in the upcoming world championships, set for mid-August in Orlando. Additionally, he is also exploring other collegiate options to continue both his academic and athletic career.
Regardless of what happens in Orlando and beyond, Moore is excited for what lies ahead, no matter where the road takes him.
“This is an unbelievable journey,” he said. “My mindset and work ethic will remain the same. Like Philippians 4:13 says, ‘I can do all things through Christ with strengthens me’ and that’s what keeps me going. Win, lose or draw, I will continue to praise God, because without Him, I couldn’t do any of this. There are a lot of people stronger than me, but no one can take away my love or passion for the sport, and I cannot wait to see what God has in store for me.”
