“The best lifters in the world had to start somewhere,” gym owner Dan Dakis says.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
He’s just hosted an entry-level competition and said it was great to see newcomers to the sport of powerlifting having a go.
About 20 competitors completed their heaviest attempts in squats, bench press and deadlifts in front of a crowd of about 30 friends and supporters.
“It's such a personal sport, but everyone's efforts are bolstered by the group so you get these new lifters empowered by everyone whose come before them,” Dakis said.
Dakis said there was a massively varied field of entries on Saturday, with 10-year-old Bella Tsogas, while Ian took part and is in his 60s.
“I truly believe that weightlifting is for everyone, no matter the age, weight or any other variable,” he said.
“Bella wasn’t there to push big weights, but be part of the community and Ian has been lifting for years, but is still getting stronger.”
Meanwhile, Aaron Gorsch and Troy Wilson provided some of the biggest lifts in personal best efforts.
Dakis has been a national competitor and has been training for a number of years and said he still loved watching the progress in motion.
“I love it, it's great to see the patience pay off with a personal best lift on the day.”
He encourages anyone considering the sport to give it a go.
“I re-iterate, all the big lifters started somewhere and these competitions are the place to start,” Dakis said.
“Anyone has the capacity to go on and be the best in the sport, It all starts with stepping up and having a go.”