09
Mar
Harrogate powerlifter Lottie McGuinness wins bronze at European Championships
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Harrogate para powerlifter Lottie McGuinness secured a bronze medal at the European Open Championships in Georgia yesterday (March 8).
Competing in the women’s up to 61kg category, McGuinness lifted 104kg and 108kg on the bench press to finish third. She failed on an attempt at 112kg.
Of the 12 competitors, only Turkey’s Besra Duman and Russia’s Tamara Podpalnaia lifted more.
It is McGuinness's first-ever medal at a major championships, and her first since breaking the British record in July last year.
Speaking to the Stray Ferret today (March 9), McGuinness said:
It’s still a whirlwind, to be honest. It’s one of those where I always wish I could turn back time to do my final lift again, but I’m happy.
Lifting 112kg wouldn’t have affected the standings, but I came here wanting to get a personal best. I think it’s there, it just needs a little bit of tweaking.
McGuinness broke the British record in the up to 61kg category last year, with a 110kg bench press.
The powerlifter is confident she can push it even further.
She will next have the chance to do so at this summer's Commonwealth Games, which take place from July 23 to August 2.
McGuinness is one of seven Brits selected for England's para powerlifting squad to compete in Glasgow.
She said:
I think this result is a good prospectus ahead of the Commonwealth Games. I’ve got four or five months to reset and build my weight up. For now, it’ll be good to get home and reset. It’s much needed.
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