FAQs
What is Lift Proud?
Lift Proud is a Pride-centered deadlift event taking place on June 13th, 2026 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Hosted in collaboration with Iron Soul Gym and Canteen Brewhouse, this community-driven event brings together LGBTQIA+ athletes and allies for a day of strength, visibility, and celebration while raising funds for the Transgender Resource Center of New Mexico.
When and where is the event?
When: Saturday, June 13th, 2026, 9am-1pm
Where: Canteen Brewhouse, 2381 Aztec Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87107.
Who can I contact with questions?
Reach out to Meet Directors:
Sam Padilla at samreachstrength@gmail.com & Cassi Niemann at cassi@ironsoulgym.com
What is the schedule?
7:30am: Check-in opens
8:15am: Athlete meeting
8:30am: Warm-ups begin for Flight 1
9:00am: Competition begins
1:00pm: Expected finish
How do I register?
Registration is $40 and this event is capped at 75 lifters. Register here: https://liftingcast.com/meets/mo039tpe3s4m/registration
After registering, you will receive information about our athlete fundraising.
Once registration closes, email cassi@ironsoulgym.com to join the waitlist. If you register and can no longer attend, please let us know as soon as possible so we can open your spot to someone waiting. Your registration fee will be donated. There are no refunds.
Where does the money go?
Registration fees cover event costs including equipment rental, signage, website hosting, event t-shirts, and volunteer gear. All donations collected through our BetterWorld fundraising page go directly to the Transgender Resource Center of New Mexico, which supports transgender, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming communities through direct services, education, and advocacy. You can learn more at tgrcnm.org.
How does athlete fundraising work?
After you register, you will receive information about setting up an individual fundraising page through BetterWorld. This is optional but encouraged. You can invite people to donate a set amount per pound you lift or simply ask for a lump sum donation. All funds raised go directly to the Transgender Resource Center of New Mexico.
What is the format of this event?
Every registered lifter gets three attempts at a best deadlift. No weigh-ins, no weight classes, no divisions. We follow typical powerlifting rules: three judges, lifts must be locked out with no hitching, no straps, shoes must be worn, and belts are welcome. Otherwise wear what you want. No singlets required. A call for opening attempts will go out via email at least one week before the event. Flights will be announced at least 24 hours in advance.
How are flights organized?
Athletes are organized into flights based on their opening attempt weight, lightest to heaviest. We anticipate up to five flights of 15 athletes each. Each flight completes all three of their attempts before the next flight begins.
Are there awards or divisions?
There are no placements, rankings, or trophies. We celebrate every person and every lift. Whether it's your first time touching a barbell in competition or your hundredth, you belong on the platform. Expect plenty of goodies from our organizers and sponsors as an athlete. You deserve it!
Do I need to have competed before to participate?
No experience required. If you know how to deadlift with a barbell, you're ready. This event is open to all experience levels, from first-time competitors to seasoned lifters. No federation membership or gym affiliation required. Our minimum opening attempt is 25 pounds (with a smaller bar) and 65 pounds with a standard 45 pound bar. We have equipment available for all lifting needs, so just show up ready to pull.
How does the lifting work on the day of the event?
Before competition begins, athletes warm up on their own using the warm-up area in the parking lot with extra bars and plates. Generally, folks like to work up to just below their opening attempt weight before your flight is called. Once competition starts, each athlete gets three attempts at their best deadlift - attempts usually have about 5-10 minutes between them as other competitors lift. Attempts can stay the same or go up in weight, but cannot go down. Your heaviest successful lift is your result.
There will be coaches present at the event to help if you have questions on the day. If you want guidance on your form, your attempt selection, or anything else barbell-related before the event, reach out to us at cassi@ironsoulgym.com and we'll get you taken care of at Iron Soul.
Will equipment be provided?
Yes. Barbells, plates, platforms, and chalk will all be provided. Athletes should bring their own shoes, belt if they use one, and whatever they typically wear or use when they lift. No need to bring your own chalk.
What gear is allowed?
This is a raw powerlifting event. Knee sleeves and wrist wraps are allowed. Suits and compression gear are not. Belts are welcome. Lifting straps are not allowed. Chalk will be provided. Shoes or deadlift slippers are required. Any clothing is otherwise welcome and no singlet is required.
Is there parking?
Yes, there is parking available in the Canteen Brewhouse gravel lot as well as on surrounding streets.
Where do athletes warm up?
Warm-ups take place in the Canteen Brewhouse parking lot. Equipment will be set up and available before your flight is called.
Is the venue accessible?
Yes. Canteen Brewhouse is ADA accessible. If you have specific accommodation needs, reach out to us at cassi@ironsoulgym.com and we will make sure you are taken care of.
Can I bring a coach or handler?
Yes. Coaches and handlers are welcome to attend. They will pay the suggested $10 spectator donation at the door.
Is there food and drink available?
Yes. Canteen Brewhouse will have food and drinks available for purchase throughout the event.
Is there a fundraising goal?
Yes, our goal is to raise $5,000 for the Transgender Resource Center of New Mexico.
Do I have to fundraise as an athlete?
No. Individual fundraising is completely optional. There is no minimum or expectation.
Can I donate even if I'm not competing or attending?
Absolutely. Anyone can donate directly through our BetterWorld fundraising page. A link will be provided once registration opens.
Are there spectators, and do they have to pay?
Yes, spectators are welcome. We have a suggested donation of $10 at the door, payable by cash or digitally. All spectator donations go directly to the Transgender Resource Center of New Mexico.
Do I need to sign a waiver?
Yes. A liability waiver must be signed on site at check-in. Your registration serves as a preliminary agreement to our terms, but the physical waiver is required before you lift.
How can I volunteer?
If you'd like to volunteer, fill out our volunteer interest form [link to form]. Volunteers receive an event t-shirt and free entry to the event. We'd love to have you.
Will there be a photographer at the event?
Yes, there will be a photographer on site capturing the event. Photos may be used for promotional and social media purposes as agreed upon at registration. If you are a photographer interested in volunteering your services, please reach out to us at liftproudabq@gmail.com (Photography coverage is a donation to the event)
How can my business or I become a sponsor or donor?
We welcome sponsors and donors of all kinds, whether that is a cash donation to the cause, products for our athlete bags or raffle, equipment, or other in-kind support. Visit our sponsor page [link to sponsor page] or email us at liftproudabq@gmail.com to learn more and get involved.