SPEARFISH - A local group of nationally ranked powerlifters are turning heads and bringing competitors from the tri-state area to Spearfish for its first-ever regional tournament.

The West River Open powerlifting meet is slated to begin at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, June 2, at the Spearfish Convention Center. Weigh-ins start at 7 a.m. Organizers are expecting a turnout upwards of 40 lifters. The event is sanctioned by the USA Powerlifting Association.

Men and women will compete in more than 10 weight classes, each separated by gender and age. Top three finalists in each weight class will receive awards. Powerlifting in three stances will be administered - bench, squat and deadlift.

From the group of organizers, three are ranked in the nation's top 10, according to the USAPL. Spearfish lifters Deb Kullerd, Brent Steinbach, Marcia Barnes and Justen Frank currently hold national status, claiming state records and sealing spots in the USAPL top ten. Kullerd, Steinbach and Frank have qualified for the nationals in Texas.

"This (USAPL) is a drug-free, clean weight lifting association," said Kullerd. "It's as close to natural as they come."

Kullerd is excited to draw a crowd to a strength-training seminar for women, the day before the tournament. Elaine Doll-Dunn will present "I Dare You;" Kullerd will offer "Facts and Fiction, Strength Training for Women;" and Tracey Steinbach will present "How to Get Started."

The seminar will run from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, June 1, at the Holiday Inn in Spearfish. The three presentations will touch on weight loss, fatigue, improving performance in sports, strength training to improve the metabolism and other benefits to exercise. The cost is $10, with proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society.

To register for the power lifting meet or women's seminar, call 642-2775 or 642-5960. Entry forms are available at the Downtown Gym or at www.usapowerlifting.com /schedule.shtml.