Bulging biceps, dripping sweat beads, and cut off t-shirts may be the picture that comes to mind when you think of a deadlifting competition.

Chances are, you either want to jump into that party or think you’d only be welcome clinging to the wall.

On October 14, Happy Hollow Wellness and the Sumner County Special Needs Collaborative are hosting a deadlifting fundraising event, “Lift-Up Sumner County,” that promises to be fun for everyone — heavy lifters and hardly lifters alike.

Happy Hollow owners Derek and Brittany Jaworski encourage one and all to come out and support the competitors, with all proceeds benefiting Sumner County Special Needs (SCSN). The wellness studio, located at 401 Happy Hollow Road in Goodlettsville, will open its barn doors to welcome 30 participants and countless spectators.

A food truck will be on site as everyone gathers to, as organizers say, “transcend the realm of lifting weights — it’s a dynamic fusion of strength, camaraderie, and unwavering support for the Sumner County special needs community.”

The entry fee to compete is just $35, and for only $10 the public can come cheer on the lifters. No prior weightlifting experience is necessary, as the event is really all about coming together to support a worthy cause.

“Families with special needs children that are trying to navigate all the things that come with having a child with a disability can be really lonely and isolating,” says Ali Ford, a Happy Hollow Wellness member and mother of two autistic children.

Ali, who is also the board Vice President of the SCSN Collaborative, wanted to find a way to raise funds for the organization. The idea of a deadlift event combined her passion for serving special needs families with the support of her deadlifting community.

“I knew the community I was a part of would be not only fun, but also a true catalyst to raise funds for SCSN,” Ali explains.

When Ali pitched the idea to Derek and Brittany at Happy Hollow, they immediately jumped on board.

“We pride ourselves on community and culture,” says Brittany, “and creating a supportive environment that’s empowering.”

Ali’s concept aligned perfectly with Happy Hollow’s passion. Derek and Brittany started Happy Hollow Wellness five years ago with the desire to share their personal wellness and fitness experiences. The conduit would be their studio, empowering others to create longevity through nutrition. Happy Hollow creates that space for growth, both physically and mentally.

“We are all about creating a positive, healthy relationship with nutrition,” adds Brittany.

Within that realm of focusing on the total body, mind, spirit and emotions, the Jaworskis have set the stage for a deadlifting event unlike any other.

Lift-Up Sumner County will include fun competition but, more importantly, will help special needs families meet one another, build relationships and erase isolation.

“For these families to be surrounded by people who get it, ones they don’t have to explain their situation to, will be a really cool aspect to it,” says Ali. “Even if just one family makes a connection, that would be pretty great for sure.”

Come, hoist a barbell or holler encouragement. The weights lifted on October 14 are reminders that we are all stronger together.

That’s a deadlift that pumps life.

To register as a Lift-Up Sumner County competitor or get tickets as a spectator, visit the Eventbrite link on the Happy Hollow Wellness Facebook page at https://fb.me/e/39H34UzMG.

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