Chris Lentini
Born: 10/10/1976
Hometown: Shreveport, LA
Current Residence: Birmingham, AL
What is your Alabama Connection? Met my future wife at U of A, and moved back here a year after we married in 2001. Founded Team Smurf in 2018, and Iron Empire Barbell Club in 2020
Current pursuits: As a 75kg lifter, I want to achieve a 10x bodyweight total in competition.
Lifting History:
When did you start weightlifting and what inspired you to start weightlifting? I didn’t start lifting till 2016 after an auto-accident left me with a meniscus torn in 6 places. Once they were repaired after surgery, my physical therapy sessions got me back into a routine for the first time since being in college. I just kept pushing myself, and someone mentioned powerlifting one day at lunch. I signed up for my first meet, and qualified for nationals by 2.5kgs. I placed third at nationals, and increased my total again, even though it was only 5 week after my first meet. As of 2025, I have competed in over 20 meets, and have achieved an international elite total at 75kg. I’ve also coached numerous lifters to World Records, and have a current roster of over 70 active athletes.
When did you get involved with powerlifting and what got you interested in the sport? – answered above
Do you have a powerlifting nick name, if so what is it and how did you get it? Papa Smurf – my first lifting partner, Joe, dubbed me that one day, and it just stuck.
What weight class(es) did you compete in? 75kg, 82.5kg
What are your best lifts in each category in each weight class?
Best Lifts @ 165 lb. Weight Class
TOTAL
EQUIPMENT
SQUAT
BENCH PRESS
BENCH PRESS
DEADLIFT
518.0
402.3
600.7
1456.0
RAW
Best Lifts @ 181 lb. Weight Class
TOTAL
EQUIPMENT
SQUAT
BENCH PRESS
BENCH PRESS
DEADLIFT
529.1
402.3
595.2
1526.6
RAW
How many years did you compete? 9+
Between what year and what year did you compete? Still active
What is the approximate total number of meets you competed in? 24
List your favorite meet(s) you competed in.
2019 American Cup at LA Fitness Expo
What’s the highest classification you achieved? International Elite
What’s the highest score you achieved? 474.74 so far
What are some of your powerlifting accomplishments?
I was the first 75kg Drug Tested Lifter over 45 years old to hit a 400+ Bench Press in a full power meet across all feds.
Who are some of the most memorable lifters/people for you in your career?
Too Many to List
With your name as part of the history of powerlifting in Alabama, what would you like to be most remembered for?
Growing the sport in all age groups, and making the sport an official AHSAA sport that could earn a college scholarship for student athletes.
What words of wisdom would you like to pass down to future powerlifters?
You’re never too old to find your passion, and you’re always strong enough to do your first meet.
What are some of your contributions to sport of powerlifting in Alabama?
State Judge, Meet Equipment Provider, Spotter/loader, Meet Host