A throng of determined athletes descended upon WADE Strength Gym, defying expectations as they vied for strength and glory at the Special Olympics Regional Powerlifting Competition in Glendale on Saturday. The gym, a forge of resilience, witnessed competitors engaging in squat, bench, and deadlifting exercises, showcasing the power of perseverance.

"Special Olympics is near, and dear to our hearts," Miryam Gutier-Elm, Co-owner of WADE Strength Systems, told ABC15. In an event where nerves run high and stakes match, Gutier-Elm praised the athletes' bravery, "When they get on that platform they're so nervous... they don't know if they can do it, but the moment they step on that platform whether they get the lift or not – you see the smile on their faces you see they're building their self-confidence."

Among the competitors was Leanna Schnell, who not only participated in all three categories but also smashed two personal records. "I feel like I've gotten stronger with my previous gym," Schnell revealed in an interview with Yahoo News. "And then I feel like I'm getting a lot stronger here at this gym too." Her ascent in physical, mental strength and job performance was the marker of her success and her dedication to surpassing her own limits.

But this regional event is just a prelude to a larger showcase of tenacity and muscle. Gutier-Elm has thrown down the gauntlet, inviting the public to come to support these valiant athletes at the State Summer Games at Raymond S Kellis High School in Glendale, Arizona on April 26 and 27, according to ABC15.