On Thursday 15th June, a team of 10 Weightlifters from throughout Wales travelled to compete in the Junior Battle, Austria, an International event with Countries from around Europe competing.
3 of the Welsh team were from Pembrokeshire, Chloe Hood, James Hart and Louis Thomas.
Chloe competed on the Friday evening and although in the build-up to the competition, she had completed less training than usual due to exams, she managed to gain 6 out of 6 successful lifts. Chloe was extremely focused throughout the warm-up and the whole length of the competition. She made a successful snatch of 63kg, which looked strong and easy. She then moved onto the clean and jerk to lift 78kg. This placed Chloe in first place and gaining the Gold medal. Chloe has continued to break her own Welsh records at a range of age groups. Chloe studies at Ysgol Milford Haven.
On the 2nd day the tournament Louis and James competed.
James is an ex-pupil from Ysgol St Davids. Since leaving school he has gained an apprenticeship at Valerio. James made a successful first Snatch of 90kg, although just missed the following two lifts of 93kg. This placed James in a difficult position as he needed a heavy clean and Jerk to place well in the competition. James made 3 successful lifts at the clean and jerk, gaining an 8kg + competition Personal Best. Showing great determination to secure 118kg on his last lift, which also secured the Bronze medal.
Louis is an ex-pupil from STP and currently studying at Pembrokeshire College. He has made very good progress in training recently and had goals to achieved 85kg snatch and 105kg Clean and Jerk. Louis performed with excellent focus to make 6 out of 6 successful lifts and also PB’s in both Snatch and Clean and jerk, 87kg and 108kg respectfully.
Simon Roach, head coach at Strength Academy Wales said “I was delighted to her from the Chloe, Louis and James over the weekend. They have performed extremely well on the International stage. All 3 have so much potential”
With other members from SAW, Chloe, Louis and James are now in training to compete at the U20 British Championships to be held later this year.
To take part in Weightlifting in Pembrokeshire please contact Simon Roach at www.strengthacademy.wales