In a fantastic first outing, Molly O’Hara broke the school record in all three lifts for the 119-pound weight class. It was one of the most anticipated female weightlifting debut’s in recent years and it did not dissapoint. During the meet against South Lake High School, O’Hara’s broke the East Ridge High weightlifting record in the Clean & Jerk, Snatch, and Bench Press. In doing so, it’s instantly catapulted her to the forefront of high school weightlifting talent in the area and in the state.

While the exact numbers remain under wraps and the offcial numbers won’t be brought to light until later this year, the magnitude of O’Hara’s achievements speaks volumes. With her powerful lifts and commanding presence, she has set a new standard at East Ridge and ignited excitement around her future and the team’s chances headed into 2024/2025. O’Hara’s performances literally left everyone in awe, including many of her teammates and competitors. And who could blame them? Molly is going to be a must see athlete over the next four years.

(It’s not often you get a freshman weightlifter who’s an instant favorite to be a district or state champion but Molly is not your average freshman weightlifter.)

Molly is a special athlete. She competes in CrossFit and is among the top 14 year olds in all of Florida. She is also a talented bowler, weightlifter and softball player. To break records in all three lifts at her very first high school meet is a testament to her talent and her dedication. Molly’s been lifting since she was around three years old and hasn’t stopped since.

I am very intrigued at just how much she will be peaking with later in the season. While the exact amounts of weight are sometimes closely guarded secrets in Weightlifting competition until districts, regionals and states, it’s worth noting that East Ridge is coming off a District Championship that they won earlier this year in February. Things are looking up for the Lady Knights to defend the title in 2025!