Jacksonville foundation hosts powerlifting event to honor its Special Olympians

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Foundation of Strength hosted its 3rd annual Special Needs Powerlifting Competition on Saturday.

This event was held to honor the achievements of its Special Olympians during the successful 2024 season.

Charlie Taylor, the organization’s founder, shared his thoughts on the event’s significance.

“It’s one of the accomplishments I take the most pride in throughout my life,” Taylor noted. “It’s incredibly uplifting when I’m having a tough day or week, and I get the opportunity to work out and train alongside my athletes; it boosts my overall spirit just as much as it helps them.”

Taylor launched the organization back in 2019, initially focusing on individualized training sessions with athletes with special needs.

He mentioned that some athletes are currently training at local YMCAs through the foundation, which has allowed him to expand the initiative.

“Through that experience, I became involved with the Special Olympics powerlifting,” Taylor explained. “Clay didn’t have a team for several years, so I started the powerlifting team for the Special Olympics, and as it evolved, I realized there were many ways to support our athletes in enhancing their training and achieving greater success.”

Jordan mentioned that he has been part of the Foundation of Fitness since around 2020.

“That’s when my mom met Charlie, and he welcomed me to be an athlete with his foundation,” Jordan stated.

He reflected on his connection with Taylor and how it has positively impacted him.

“Charlie has become like a mentor to me, almost like family,” Jordan shared. “He is someone I can turn to whenever I need assistance. It goes beyond just being a coach; he serves as a mentor in my life.”

The competition featured lifts such as squats, bench presses, and deadlifts, adhering to traditional powerlifting regulations.