Desmond Jordan, an internationally recognized powerlifter from Pender County, is representing Team USA at the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) World Masters Classic and Equipped Powerlifting Championships in Cape Town, South Africa. The competition runs Oct. 10–19.

Jordan is the 2024 USPA Tested National Champion in the Open 125kg class, posting a 902.5kg (1,989 lbs.) total. He also set a world record in 2023 with an 800-pound deadlift at the  International Powerlifting League (IPL) in Coventry, England, and holds multiple state and national records.

Despite limited mobility in one arm following a car accident, Jordan has continued to excel in athletics, beat the odds, and inspire others. He owns House of Gains, a training studio in Burgaw where he coaches the “Hog Squad,” a team of athletes ages 14 to 70 that has earned two national championships and set multiple records.

Jordan is passionate about educating others on the benefits of strength training. “You’ve got to keep the muscles strong to stabilize the joints for a longer, healthier life,” he said.

The Pender County Board of Commissioners recognized Jordan at their most recent meeting. The Board commended him and wished him success as he heads to South Africa to compete on the world stage.