SAM ROWLANDS, Member of the Welsh Parliament for North Wales, has congratulated a Wrexham university lecturer for achieving a world record in the British Powerlifting Single Lift Championships.
Dr Chelsea Batty, Principal Lead for Sport and Exercise Science and Applied Sciences at Wrexham University recently took part in the recent competition, where she not only secured a world record but was also named British champion.
Mr Rowlands said: “What an incredible achievement. I think it is fantastic to see a sportsperson from North Wales making headline news and breaking a world record.
“Not only is she keeping Wrexham and the university firmly on the map but it is an excellent way to encourage other young people to take up this sport.
“I am delighted to congratulate her on her achievements and wish her the best of luck in Poland this week as she takes part in the European Powerlifting Championships.”
Dr Batty was among more than 200 competitors across the two-day event, which took place at the University of Bolton Arena. During the competition, she recorded a 147.5kg bench press.
This is the latest in a string of sporting achievements for Dr Batty who back in December became British champion in the international Powerlifting League British Championships.
Dr Batty said: “I feel absolutely delighted to have achieved not only a British champion title but I’m also now a Powerlifting world record holder, and that feels incredible.
“Ahead of the competition, I was hoping for 140kg but got a 147.5kg bench press, which I couldn’t quite believe. I’m proud of what I’ve achieved but I’m already preparing for the Euros, so no rest for me!
“One thing I am always keen to stress to anyone but particularly our Sports Coaching students is that athletes can achieve anything they set their mind to, as long as they’ve committed to putting the hard work in at training and have a determined mindset.
“Mindset is so crucial, that’s most of the battle. As an active competitor and coach, I constantly remind students of the importance of soft skills such as communication during strength training and coaching.”
