Cedrionna Blackmore: 2025 State Championship Powerlifter

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Cedrionna Blackmore claimed the title of state champion powerlifter last month after finishing first at the Mississippi state meet. The Vicksburg High School sophomore lifted her way to the top to earn her first official state title.

“I’ve been lifting since the ninth grade, and it’s quickly becoming one of my favorite sports,” Blackmore said. “I had to study my competition to stay ahead of the game, and it paid off well.”

Just a year ago, Blackmore was a first-year lifter but still managed to qualify for the state meet, where she finished third in 2024 after squatting 280 pounds, deadlifting 285 and bench pressing 155. Her numbers improved significantly in 2025, and she earned the gold medal after squatting 325 pounds, bench pressing 160 and deadlifting 325.

“I almost cried when I found out I won because everything I’ve been working for finally came true,” she said. “It was great to bring home the first-place award everyone wanted me to bring.”

Blackmore said she lifted nearly every day to prepare for her breakout season. She credited Vicksburg head coach Andre Bennett for helping her stay focused.

“Coach Bennett kept me motivated the whole time, and he made sure I was able to lift what I needed to win state,” Blackmore said.

In addition to powerlifting, Blackmore is also a member of both the VHS cheerleading squad and the track and field team. Despite her recent success, she’s already looking ahead.

“I’m aiming for first place in every meet next year, and I won’t stop until I reach that goal,” she said.