Several local weight lifters recently took part in the annual Pittsburgh Monster Bench Press Classic.

More than 100 lifters participated, including James Harrison of the Steelers.

Athletes from the Irwin area placing in the top three in the raw division were: Paul Carrol, who was third in the grandmaster category (220-265); Mary Patterson, who was first in the 135 pound category; Jim Patterson, who was first in the open category (220-450); Rich Keebler, who was third in the open category (181-305); and Jeff McMunn, who took first in the open category (198-325).

Placing in the open class where gear is allowed were: Ed Durci, who was first in the master category (220-385); Gavin Sikorski, who finished first in the teen division (148-250); Craig Wargo, who was first in the master category (181-460); Nate Begonia, who was first in the junior category (242-480); Casey O'Neil, who was first in the junior category (220-455); Josh Walak, who was third in the open division (242-325); and Bruce Rosyak, who finished first in the junior category (308-550).