My name is Bob Connell, Jr.  Welcome to Raw Iron Powerlifting, formally known as Rhode Island Powerlifting. The site was originally designed to keep everyone up to date with what’s going on in Rhode Island Powerlifting.  A lot has happened over the past 5 years and what was local has become international.  I have become an USPF International Referee, World and American Powerlifting Records Chairman, Region 1 Chairman and also have designed Powerlifting Competition Software. This allowed me to travel across the United States to run meets.  I have met some great people along the way and have learned a lot. It is my hope to continue to participate in the sport and help develop Powerlifting. I hold several State and World Bench records, one of them 507 lbs. (230 kilos), set at age 50. I get the most pleasure from running powerlifting meets giving lifters a new experience.  My software allows each lifter to have all of the records printed specifically tailored to them. The goal is to have the lifter with all the tools he needs to lift that day.  The Software includes a custom Bar Loading program that is on a large screen for everyone to see, that reflects what’s going on, on the Platform.  Of course none of this can happen without the help of some great people and I want to thank everyone who has and will help me the future to run the highest quality meets anywhere. The site is always evolving and will continue to do so and I hope you find it informative. Thank you for your continued support.