A Family Legacy of Strength
A big brother can be an uplifting source to a younger brother but for William "Billy" and Vincent Careri the "lift" is also about strength.
The Careri brothers are both powerlifters.
"My grandfather Joe Careri holds powerlifting records and got me interested in the sport," said Billy. "Vincent is now training"
Billy's Championship Success
Billy became a state and regional champion when he dead lifted 400 pounds. The win qualify him to compete in a national competition.
The 17-year old has until September 2026 to accept the bid to compete at the national competition.
Billy's personal record is 450 pounds.
Beyond the Gym
In addition to powerlifting, Billy enjoys playing golf and is an avid snowboarder.
"In the offseason, I like to snowboard at the American Dream Mall," said Billy. "In season, I am at Mountain Creek every day and also go to Vermont with a friend."
Billy's strength and disciplined work ethic inspired him to open his own business in 2024, W. Careri Contracting.
"It's a lot of manual labor moving pavers and wheelbarrows full of concrete," said Billy. "I go to the gym and workout every day and some of the men I work with are so strong."
A senior at Ramapo High School, Billy plans to grow his business and earn his electricians license.
Vincent's Rising Journey
In the meantime, Billy is offering guidance to Vincent.
An eighth grader at Eisenhower Middle School, Vincent is training for his first powerlifting event, the Iron Gobbler, in November.
In addition to working out with his brother, Vincent trains at Fitness 19 with friends .
"On Monday I work on upper body workouts and Tuesdays is squats and legs, explains Vincent. "Wednesday is a day of rest and I repeat the workout on Thursday and Friday."
Vincent says he enjoys the camaraderie and support of fellow "lifters' at the gym.
He also is happy to take advice from Grandpa Joe.
"I was feeling ligament pain and he helped me with my form when doing squats," said Vincent.
He also finds inspiration and tips from Professional Powerlifter Larry Wheels.
"I watch his You Tube channel," said Vincent.
Currently, Vincent stats are140 pounds in bench press, 200-220 pounds squat lifting and 250 pounds dead lifting.
A Mother's Perspective
What does mom Bethany think about her sons love of powerlifting?
"Powerlifting has not only built muscles it has built confidence," said Bethany. "They also want to eat all the time."
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