What is the primary focus during a powerlifting competition?

The primary focus during a powerlifting competition is to ensure all athletes compete fairly. This commitment to fairness is central to maintaining the integrity of the sport, allowing each lifter to have an equal opportunity to showcase their skills and abilities. Referees play a crucial role in overseeing the competition and enforcing rules so that no athlete has an unfair advantage, which includes making accurate calls on lifts, adhering to equipment regulations, and monitoring athlete conduct.

While entertainment and the possibility of setting world records are important aspects of powerlifting events, they are secondary to the foundational principle of fair competition. Promoting teamwork is not typically a focus in powerlifting, as it is primarily an individual sport where personal achievement and competitive integrity take precedence. Thus, the emphasis on fairness ensures that competition results are valid and respected, making it the primary focus during events.