At Donovan Catholic, our students pursue their passions both inside and outside the classroom and junior Caylee Navas is proving that hard work and determination can take you around the world.
Just a few weeks ago, Navas traveled to Warsaw, Poland, where she represented Team USA at the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) Bench Press World Championships. Competing in the 57kg Sub-Junior Equipped Bench Press Division, Navas earned a bronze medal, finishing as the third-ranked athlete in the world in her division.
The achievement came after years of dedication to the sport and a successful qualification process through national-level competition. While athletes from Finland and Ukraine captured the gold and silver medals, Navas proudly stood on the podium representing the United States on one of powerlifting's biggest stages.
For Navas, however, the experience was about much more than winning a medal. She says, "Even if I didn't place, I was still so grateful for the opportunity to be there and represent Team USA.”
The trip was especially memorable because it marked another major milestone as it was Caylee’s first time traveling outside of the United States.
Navas credits much of her success to the unwavering support of her father, who has coached and trained her throughout her powerlifting journey. She also expressed deep gratitude for the team at Atlantic City Barbell, whose guidance, mentorship, and encouragement have played a significant role in her development as an athlete. Together, she says, they have helped her tremendously in reaching the world stage.
Balancing academics with the demands of training and competition requires discipline, commitment, and perseverance, qualities that Navas demonstrates every day.
Now ranked among the best young powerlifters in the world, she is already looking ahead to her next challenge. After spending the summer training, Navas plans to return to competition this fall as she continues pursuing her goals in the sport.
Looking even further into the future, Navas hopes to turn her passion into a career as a Strength and Conditioning Coach, helping athletes reach their full potential through training, mentorship, and hard work.
Whether stepping onto an international stage for the first time or traveling across the world to represent her country, Navas approaches each experience with gratitude and determination, a mindset that has already taken her farther than most could imagine.
Congratulations to Caylee on this incredible accomplishment. The entire Donovan Catholic community is proud to celebrate her success and looks forward to following her journey in the years ahead.