Powerlifting Club competition this weekend

More than 30 lifters have registered for the event and in a change from the norm; most of the entries are from women.

When you look at the current make-up of the Derry club, it’s hardly surprising.

The Billy Hutchison coached powerlifting organisation has soaring numbers it it’s female ranks, thanks in no small part to the fast tracked development of a number of their lifters.

The club has five members flying over to the IPO European Championships in England later this month, three of which are female.

One of the club’s elite lifters, Emma Rogan, has also been invited to lift in the pro-event, ‘Battle of the Boyne’ in July, which is an ‘invite only’ competition.

For her, taking part is the sport is ‘downtime’.

She said: “It’s my small window of time away from home, work and the kids, just me and the weights.

“It makes me feel physically and mentally strong and my self-esteem has improved so much since I joined the 
club.”

Saturday’s event at Fighting Fit in Springtown gives the next generation of competitive powerlifters a chance to lift under proper commands and to strict judging rules.

“It gives people the chance to get comfortable with competition standards,” said Billy Hutchison, a European IPO champion in the 75kg class.

“We have had registrations from across the County and beyond, which is so encouraging for the sport’s continued growth.”

Lifters don’t have to ‘make weight’ for this competition, but still have to weigh in before the event.

Mr Hutchinson explained: “We will be judging the event on something called the WILKS formula, which gives lifters a score proportional to their bodyweight.

“It gives the smaller guys a chance against the big lifters, who should be able to handle bigger weights.

“All competitors will be treated as they would be at an international meet.

“They will have a chance for walk in music of their choice, they’ll be judged on their lifts and they’ll be fighting it out for medals and trophies.

“But the most important reason for hosting this event is that it gives an opportunity to bring like-minded people together, to push themselves to their limit and meet new friends in the process.”

The DPC Development Competition begins at 1pm.

Registration is closed but spectators are invited to watch the lifters in action and entry is free.

For more information on the Development Competition or Derry Powerlifting Club, contact Billy Hutchinson on: 07712 256791 or visit the club’s Facebook page for up to date information on training days and events.