Congratulations to Upper Sixth student Ansh who competed in his first powerlifting competition this weekend and set a new British Record!
The British Powerlifting Union (BPU) Regional Competition took place in Eastbourne and Ansh was competing in the 16-17 year-old age/60kg weight category. On his first bench press attempt, he lifted 100kg and set a new BPU British record; having to ring the bell at the event to signal his achievement.
Ansh says, “As it was my first competition, I was a little nervous, especially as the lead up to has been a bit of a rollercoaster. I got a bad shoulder injury two weeks’ ago, at the peak of my preparation, and was advised it might be better to pull out of the competition.
“However, I was patient and managed to recover, but only by last Wednesday so was worried I might not be able to bench at all. I was also slightly over my weight limit so had to fast before the official competition weigh-in. I enjoyed a lot of Maoams, rice cakes, and Lucozade after that! Although I was aiming for the world record, I am pleased with the result given the hurdles I’ve had to overcome.”
Ansh has been going to the gym for a couple of years, but only recently got interested in powerlifting. He trains with Mr Richmond in the Strength and Conditioning Suite and Fitness Centre and often goes to the gym with his dad at the weekend. A growing number of students have been getting into competitive powerlifting and Ansh’s friend Adeel shared some tips and competitions that he could get involved in.
The next stage for Ansh would be competing in the nationals, but unfortunately, they take place next May when he’ll be focusing on his A Levels.
A brilliant achievement in the first competition – well done!
Scroll right to see more stories
