Overcome and Excel, Markel Hendrix returns after a near career-ending accident.

Keith Baker with Markel Hendrix -

I first met Markel in April 2022 at the Arkansas Powerlifting Championship IV. He was part of a small group that competed in their first meet, and his initial performance put him on everyone's radar. Just weeks later, he had a massive setback that would have ended most careers in powerlifting.

Markel states, "Back on May 28th, 2022, I was hit by a car on my motorcycle, being tossed 30 feet in the air and coming back down. I didn't know if I would survive or not. My injuries were all to my left side. My Achilles was cut, 4 out of 5 toes had to be stitched back on. I was on bed rest for 9 weeks before I could attempt to walk. During that time, my left hip developed arthritis so I have constant pain most days. As soon as I was able to walk, I did a USPA Drug Tested competition where I was able to set a bench record with a pin still in my foot for the 82.5kg class. After that, I started to get back to work. My brother Antonio Mcduffie and my coach, Jon Bubsy talked into doing a competition in April of 2023. I prepared and was able to win my weight class. Two months later, I did an NPL Drug Tested and got best lifter in June. Fast forward to December 2023, and at Above and Beyond Crossfit Gym, I managed to place 2nd overall. I wasn't finished. June 2024, Nationals came about, and I was able to walk away with 3rd place and also ranked 2nd in the state while still dealing with hip pain. I was still able to increase my squats from 650 672 705 722!! There is no quit in me!!"

Look out for Markel. He's got the best days still ahead of him.