TEPIC, Mexico – Menlo Weightlifting standout sophomore Jade Morales had a record-breaking day at the Junior Pan American Championships in Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico at the Nayarit Sports Village on October 5, breaking four American records as she continues her tremendous run representing her country.

"I am extremely proud of the personal growth over her freshman year and now at the beginning of her sophomore year," said head coach Kevin Doherty. "Her commitment to herself and her teammates sets the example for the whole team. Her ability to double down on school and extra workouts on Monday and Wednesday mornings is inspiring to me as one of her coaches."

Competing in the 53kg division, Morales earned three medals while breaking five American Junior records. Completing four of her six lifts successfully, Morales broke the American junior record in the snatch by 1kg with a 77kg lift on her second attempt, which was also a personal-best. In the clean and jerk, Morales broke the record by 4kg, finishing successfully on her third lift at 103kg, another personal-best. 

In total, Morales lifted a personal-best 180kg successfully, surpassing the American junior record by 5kg. Morales eclipsed the USAW junior "A" standard by 1kg and, after her strong performance, is just 9kg away from the senior "B" standard. 

On an individual level, Morales' success in the competition likely qualifies her for her final Junior World Championship in 2027, along with the next Junior Pan American Championship. Morales looks to become one of only a handful of three-time medalists, capping off her run from 2025 through 2026.

After competing for her country, Morales returns to Atherton to compete alongside her teammates at the domestic level in the Don Wilson Golden West Invitational. The competition, which occurs in Hayward at the Iron Warehouse, takes place on November 1.