AFTER competing in Strong Women competitions, Louise Clark was looking for a new challenge and now she is number one in the world at the age of 56.

The grandmother started working out in her 40s and for many years just went to the gym as a way to look after herself, but she soon found herself looking for a test.

So, Louise began taking part in Strong Women contests which saw her flipping huge tyres, lifting logs and the iconic Stones of Strength, to name but a few disciplines.

However, last year Louise decided that she needed a change – and an activity in which she was less likely to injure herself.

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The Chineham resident said: “My coach at the gym, who I train with, said ‘why don’t you have a go at powerlifting, there is less of a chance of injuring yourself’.”

She began powerlifting training with her coach James Rush at the Inner Athlete Gym in Silchester.

The mum of one decided to enter an amateur competition in December 2021 – coming second – which gave her the buzz to enter more contests.

Coming first in the regional qualifiers and British National Championships, she won her way through to the AWPC World Powerlifting Championships in Manchester, which took place on Friday, September 9.

To Louise’s surprise, she set a new Bench World Record – lifting 62.5kg - and winning the gold medal in Masters 4 category. Masters 4 is for women aged between 54 and 59.

She said: “Even when I won the British championships, I was thinking that I shouldn’t be here, all these other people are so much better than me.

“It is surreal, I couldn’t quite believe it [when I won], little old me being fairly mediocre

“I am so proud of myself and want to inspire other people – it is never too late.”

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Louise said that exercise has given her something to focus on and hopes that she can encourage others to take up exercise or a new hobby.

Sending a message, she said: “Don’t be afraid, I was really nervous before I stepped up to my first lift, but there is nothing to be nervous about.

“What’s the worst that can happen, always have a try.”