Powerlifter Chris Kennedy's Remarkable Journey from Crime to Redemption
In a stunning act of self-accountability, world-renowned powerlifter Chris Kennedy deliberately chose to report his own criminal actions to authorities, setting in motion a transformative personal journey. The 33-year-old athlete, now based in Australia, contacted CrimeStoppers in New Zealand to confess to robbing a corner store, resulting in a three-year and one-month prison sentence that he describes as the best decision of his life.
A Descent into Darkness and a Drastic Decision
Speaking exclusively to the Daily Mail ahead of the upcoming AusFitness Expo in Melbourne, Kennedy reflected on the difficult circumstances that preceded his incarceration. "I was 20 at the time and had spent my late teens living on the streets after getting caught up in the drug scene, mainly using meth and LSD," he revealed. The powerlifter acknowledged that his parents reacted as expected to news of his impending jail term, but he remained convinced that confronting his actions through the legal system was necessary for his future.
Prison as an Unexpected Turning Point
Kennedy's initial experience behind bars beginning in 2012 proved surprisingly formative. "Jail was certainly eye-opening," he recalled. "On my first day inside, a couple of the Mongrel Mob gang members asked if I wanted to join in on their workout." This invitation sparked what would become a lifelong passion for strength training. "It was tough, but at the same time amazing, the endorphins...I had never felt like that before," Kennedy explained. "The sense of community was also fantastic, I finally felt like I belonged."
Academic Ascent and Athletic Achievement
After serving two years of his sentence and earning early release for good behavior, Kennedy embarked on an impressive educational path. He initially enrolled in sports science studies, progressing through a diploma and bachelor's degree before completing his master's at Auckland University of Technology. The dedicated scholar continues his academic pursuits, currently working toward a PhD at the University of Queensland in Australia.
Simultaneously, Kennedy cultivated his athletic career, beginning with a voluntary strength and conditioning role with the New Zealand Breakers basketball team, which competes in Australia's National Basketball League. His powerlifting achievements have been particularly notable, with Kennedy now ranked number one in Australia and twelfth worldwide in his weight class.
Competitive Spirit and Future Aspirations
Kennedy will compete as one of the favorites in the 82.5kg weight division at the AusFitness Expo in Melbourne. While athletes in this competition are permitted to use steroids under specific regulations, Kennedy emphasized that this doesn't diminish the level of competition. "It is part of the Australian Powerlifting League (APL), it will definitely be entertaining," commented the FIFO (fly-in, fly-out) worker. "I'm then competing in a similar event in Germany, it is always a thrill to test myself against the world's best."
Wisdom Gained Through Experience
Reflecting on his unconventional path to success, Kennedy offered advice for those facing difficult life choices. "I wouldn't change a thing...it is my story," he stated emphatically. "Don't hold grudges, it doesn't serve any purpose. And always look to be the best version of yourself." His message emphasizes personal accountability and forward momentum, principles that have guided his remarkable transformation from troubled youth to accomplished academic and elite athlete.
Kennedy's story stands as a powerful testament to the possibility of redemption through confronting one's mistakes, embracing discipline, and pursuing meaningful goals with determination and focus.
