Bev Francis returns to powerlifting at the age of 63!
Author: If our magazine is read by older readers, they may remember former powerlifter and bodybuilder Bev Francis (February 15, 1955), who became one of the most famous faces of powerlifting and bodybuilding between 1980-1990. In her youth, Bev was a shot putter, which led her to powerlifting. During 1980 and 1985, Bev won six world titles and earned the "Strongest Woman in History" award. In 1983, Francis was invited to make her bodybuilding debut to compete in the Caesar's World Cup in Las Vegas.
At the competition, Francis met IFBB judge and powerlifter Steve Weinberger, whom she later married. She moved to Weinberger's Long Island mansion and in 1986 competed in her first IFBB Ms. Olympia competition, placing 10th. The next year, she won the IFBB Women's World Pro Championships and placed an amazing third at Ms. Olympia. She was third again in 1988 and 1989 and finished second in 1990.
Bev Francis and Steve Weinberger
After leaving the competition boards, both Francis and Weinberger moved to their gym, Powerhouse Gym in Syosset, also known as the Mecca of the East Coast. The pair didn't stay in the sidelines, however. Some of the best bodybuilders in the world, such as Kai Green, Ronnie Coleman, and even our own Lukas Osladil, started coming to their gym to train.
And at the age of 63, Bev is back on the powerlifting boards again! The last time that happened was in 1985. An incredible 35 years have passed since then! At the Powerlifting Australia competitions, Francis appeared in the 65-69 years old category in the under 64kg division, where she managed to set several new world records at the age of 63!
Bev Francis World Records:
- Squat : 209 lb (95 kg)
- Bench Press: 132 lb (60 kg)
- Deadlift: 264 lb (120 kg)
- Total: 605 lb (275 kg)
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