​Summer is typically a thriving season for the Country Strong Fitness Weightlifting team, with athletes seizing the chance to compete at the USA Weightlifting National Championships. This year, the team delivered another strong national performance in Colorado Springs, Colorado, with one standout moment making history inside the Industry gym’s 13-year history. Alena Griesser shattered an American record during her third and final attempt, marking a milestone for the program and its athletes.
Competing in the 13U and under 44 kg (97 lbs) division, Griesser elevated the clean and jerk to 59 kg (130 lbs), earning the gold medal in that lift and securing the overall competition in her weight class. Weighing in at 96 lbs, her successful lift equaled 1.35 times her body weight, underscoring the remarkable strength she demonstrated on the national stage. The record-setting performance occurred at the USA Weightlifting National Championships in Colorado Springs in June 2026, highlighting the continual progress and depth of talent within Country Strong.
In addition to her gold in the clean and jerk, Griesser earned a silver medal in the snatch and another silver for overall performance in the division, rounding out a highly successful showing at nationals. Her achievement stands as a milestone for the gym and its athletes, illustrating the program’s commitment to excellence.
Griesser wasn’t alone in delivering notable results for Country Strong at the national meet. Her brother, Aidan Griesser, competing in the 15U 174 lbs. and under category, captured silver medals in the snatch and the clean and jerk, as well as silver for overall performance, contributing to a strong team performance for Beaver County’s weightlifting program.
Beaver native Edward Quillin, who competes in the junior 110 kg weight class, earned a bronze medal in the snatch, adding to the team’s string of solid finishes. Luke Griesser also competed, placing 21st overall in the junior 88 kg division, demonstrating the breadth and depth of Country Strong’s roster.
The Country Strong weightlifting program is led by Tim Griesser, whose coaching over the past 13 years has helped cultivate numerous national champions and a culture of elite athletic performance within the gym. The team’s achievements at national championships reflect not only the athletes’ hard work but also the enduring guidance and support provided by a dedicated coaching staff.
Ethan Morrison is the sports reporter for the Beaver County Times. He can be reached at emorrison@usatodayco.com and followed on X at @EthanMorrison26 for updates. This article originally appeared in the Beaver County Times.