Learner David Stroughton has had an incredible journey to success having started powerlifting just a few months ago during Portland’s enrichment week earlier this year.
David was looking for a local activity to get involved in, so he took part in the powerlifting session at Portland where he caught the eye of the coaches and Portland sports tutor Stevie Speakman who is involved in powerlifting outside of college.
In May, he competed in the British Powerlifting Championship where he lifted a whopping 138kg, more than double his own body weight, which was enough to win the junior category and saw him qualify for the European Championships.
David, who is an inspiration to us all at Portland, went on to win the European Championships and qualify for the World Championships which took place in October where David achieved his own personal best and was crowned as World Champion.
David said “When I got there at worlds, I was nervous and excited to get weighed in. I was weighed as 63.5 kg. Knowing I had made weight I got settled in to watch all the other teams as well as my GB team.”
“Whilst watching, I am getting mentally and physically ready for something that was new to me, a make it or break it moment. Without the support of college and everyone else, I could not have got that far to break it. I got three green lights on every lift and for my final lift it was meant to be 160kg, but without even realising it was actually 162.5kg which my coach set before I got on the platform. I lifted it, got my PB and with that 2 International Records and first place world champion!”
“I would like to thank college for all their support and also my sponsor Laing O Rourke who made it possible for me to attend the Worlds by helping me with my fees and kit.”
Dave Winter, Curriculum Manager said: “David, this is an unreal achievement and is testament to your hard work, commitment and passion! The whole College is so proud of you, keep going and you will soon be able to cement your place in the GB national Squad.”