Mackenzie Lai

IPF Open Classic World Championship
2025 - 84+kg - 6th

Canada Powerlifting Open Classic National Championship
2025 - 84+kg - Silver
2024 - 84+kg - Silver
2023 - 84+kg - Silver

Best Lifts
Classic Squat - 250kg
Classic Bench Press - 152.5kg
Classic Deadlift - 250kg
Classic Total - 650kg

Biography
I have been powerlifting for the past four years, but my journey into the sport came from an unexpected place. After tearing my ACL for the second time while playing rugby, I chose to not have another knee surgery. I was told the best thing I could do was get strong—so I did. What started as a recovery plan turned into a passion that’s shaped my life.

Originally from Langley, BC, I now train out of TWP Fitness in Kelowna with the guidance of my longtime friend and coach, Wesley Chu. Powerlifting has given me more than just physical strength—it’s been a way to push past limits I never thought I could. My proudest accomplishments so far include making the 2025 World’s Team and achieving a 650kg total, milestones that still feel surreal. Just as meaningful, though, is the incredible community I’ve built along the way. The friendships, support, and shared passion I’ve found in this sport have become one of the most rewarding parts of the journey.

Outside the gym, I work as a speech-language pathologist in acute care and inpatient rehab at the hospital. Helping people to eat, drink, and communicate again is deeply fulfilling and keeps me grounded. When I'm not working or training, you'll find me reading, swimming (anything water-related really), or spending time with my friends, family, and my two cats.

A big part of what drives me is the memory of my mom, who passed away a few years ago. She was my best friend and biggest cheerleader and she continues to be my greatest source of motivation. Every lift, every training session, every meet—I carry her with me.

What is your favourite lifting memory?
Competing at my first ever Nationals in 2023. It was held near my hometown and so lots of my loved ones came to cheer me on which made it so special. 

What is one piece of advice you have for up and coming athletes getting into strength training or strength sport?
Progress is not linear and there are times where training will not feel good but anything worth doing is worth doing with what we have to give.

What is your favourite lift or event?
Bench because it feels so technical. I’m still learning a lot about it and what works for me so I like the cognitive aspect of it too. 

What is your favourite product and why?
Powerlifting Knee Sleeves
They keep me feeling stable physically, and confident mentally because after so many knee injuries from rugby, having gear that supports all aspects of training is crucial.

What 3 other items are your go to and why?
10mm Belt
13mm Belt
Flexible Medium Wrist Wraps
I have been using SBD equipment since I first started powerlifting, and it’s been a constant in my training ever since. Knee sleeves, belts and wrist wraps - the quality has always been top-tier—durable, reliable, and designed with serious lifters in mind. I did not use a belt for deadlifts until the 10mm belt and found it is supportive without restricting me.

What colourway is your favourite and why?
Phantom
It is sleek and powerful looking.

Why do you believe SBD is the gear all athletes should use?
SBD is not just producing gear—they’re constantly innovating, staying up to date with the latest technology and always aligned with IPF standards. Also, SBD gear just looks good. It’s stylish, clean, and makes me feel confident every time I step on the platform. SBD has supported my training from day one, and I trust it to be there as I keep pushing toward bigger goals.

Why do you believe in working with SBD Canada as a Sponsored Athlete?
Being an SBD Canada athlete is an incredible opportunity to represent a brand that’s been with me since day one. Their gear is top quality, always evolving with the sport, and built to perform at the highest level. But what matters most to me is how much SBD Canada truly cares about its athletes and the powerlifting community. I’m proud to be part of a team that shares the same values and passion for the sport.