The 8th Annual Uplifting Athletes Lift for Life raised over $98,000 for the Kidney Cancer Association this year. The annual event, held in Holuba Hall, tests members of the Nittany Lion football team on their strength and endurance. The players form teams of 4 and compete in 11 events that “range from the ordinary (bench press) to the extreme (giant tire flip).”

Players are not allowed breaks between the events and all participants must compete in all events. Uplifting Athletes is a nonprofit organization that brings together college football programs to combat rare diseases founded by former Nittany Lion Scott Shirley, whose father battled kidney cancer while Scott was a player.

“Founded by Penn State Football teammates in 2003, Lift For Life has continued to build awareness and raise funds for the Kidney Cancer Association. The event is organized by Penn State Football Uplifting Athletes SM, whose members are on the Penn State football team, led by Brett Brackett, president of the chapter.”

The 76 participants of the event ranged from superstar Evan Royster to incoming freshmen Khairi Fortt and Dakota Royer. The team compositions ranged from all offensive linemen to all kickers and also included several teams with players from different positions.

Wide receiver Brett Brackett, defensive end Jack Crawford, fullback Mike Zordich, and linebacker Gerald Hodges took home first place, with Brackett and Crawford going 1-2 in leg presses with 110 and 100 respectively. Interestingly, the second place team was composed entirely of walk-ons.

Check out the pictures of the events below.