On the 18th February I competed in the ABPU regional qualifier at Raw Strength Gym, Warrington, and I just couldn’t wait to tell you all about it and show off my gorgeous photos from ShotsLikeSumo!

This time I’ve had the wonderful experience of being prepped and supported by a great coach (Strength By Forge) and came to comp feeling so well prepared for what was to come.
During squat warm ups I had the usual jitters that always come with the first lift of the day, but I put on my headphones and shut out the world, focusing on going through each motion as I warmed up, whilst occasionally making use of some regulating exercises I’ve learnt through my somatic experiencing therapist.
I opened on 100kg beautifully, got to 112kg (my current PB) and dropped like an absolute wanker yet somehow saved it easily. With how I’d managed to save it I decided my 3rd attempt would fly at 117kg and boy did it! I made sure to take my time, even when the start command was given I took a moment, something I’ve not really done before, often rushing and feeling the pressure. Learning to take my time is something I’m getting much better at with each competition.

Next came my nemesis: Bench Press.

This lift has been one I’ve had a number of challenges with, even more so after bombing out on bench at Worlds in 2022.
I opened on a safe 60kg and it moved so well that I decided to jump to 65kg for a second attempt.

Sadly I failed my second attempt, but thanks to all of the work I’ve been doing, this didn’t bother me in the slightest. Instead, I took an analytical approach to the failure and realised I hadn’t been tight enough, failing to bend the bar and lift my chest to it.

I came into my 3rd attempt cool as a cucumber, took my time setting up, remembered my cues better, and to my delight completed the lift! Unfortunately I got red lighted from either side because my butt decided it fancied leaving the bench, but honestly? I was still over the moon with how I’d overcome the issues and managed to complete the lift, even if it wasn’t technically correct.

Deadlifts have always been my favourite lift, I’m built well for them and they always move well.

I had a clean opener at 155kg, a second attempt at 165kg (2.5kg up from my current max), but didn’t feel much for that lift because I had my eyes on an even bigger PB.
My 3rd attempt was 172.5kg and I went in with guns blazing, with a little fight I got the lift with 3 white lights! Such a high to finish the day on, plus my qualification to Brits this summer.

I absolutely love getting on the platform and the community of amazing people that make this sport possible, it’s so incredible to get to do this!