Jack Carroll: Powerlifting Champion with a Heart of Gold
Jack Carroll isn’t just lifting weights—he’s lifting barriers, lifting spirits, and lifting the expectations of what’s possible.
After more than seven years in powerlifting, Jack has made a name for himself on the national stage. This year, he took home two major titles at the Australian Powerlifting Alliance Classic Open Nationals in Sydney: winner of the Under 74kg category and the coveted title of Overall Powerlifter in the Special Olympics category.
“It’s been about seven years now,” Jack said. “My personal trainer Shannon at Lonedog, saw something in me. He said powerlifting came naturally to me and encouraged me to compete in a competition in Sydney in the 74kg category.”
Since then, Jack hasn’t looked back. With a best competition benched press of 90kgs, dead lift of 160 kgs and squat of 120kg, and the ability to regularly lift twice his body weight, he’s earned his place among Australia’s top lifters. But the strength isn’t just physical—it’s backed by dedication to training, discipline, and nutrition.
“Nutrition is very important,” Jack explained. “I have regular kale juices and love a roast of any kind. I did a lot of research to figure out the best foods for me.”
When asked about nerves, Jack smiled: “A little, but after seven years, I’m not nervous anymore.”
What makes Jack’s recent win even more impressive is how the overall powerlifting title is determined. His mother, Merrill, explained: “They use a formula that factors in body weight and the amount lifted. So even if someone lifts more in total, Jack’s lifts are heavier in relation to his own body weight. It’s about power-to-weight ratio—and Jack nailed it.”
For Jack, the thrill of competition is more than just standing on the podium. “It’s exciting being with all the other competitors,” he said. “I’m quite experienced now, so I try to help others too.”
Despite this being his first major prize, Jack made the selfless decision to donate his winnings. “My god mother passed away the week before Christmas,” he said. “My yoga teacher Valentina and my trainer Shannon have both battled cancer. I wanted to honour them and help others.”
Next up, Jack is heading to Germany to compete in the IPF Worlds Classic Open Powerlifting Championships in Chemnitz—a landmark moment as this will be the first time the competition includes a Special Olympics division. Jack is proud to be the only Australian Special Olympics competitor invited.
His passion for the sport is clear. “I live it,” Jack said. “I just live and sleep power lifting.”
As Jack Carroll heads to Germany, he carries not only Australia’s hopes but the legacy of those he lifts for—his family, mentors, and community. More than a powerlifter, Jack is a trailblazer, showing the world that strength comes from both body and heart.
We wish Jack all the best for the upcoming competition that starts the competition on Saturday 14th June, and can’t wait to catch up with him upon his return.
