Adam Gault at the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) Commonwealth Championships
In what can only be described as a monumental achievement for such a young athlete, 15-year-old Adam Gault from Dunloy, County Antrim, has clinched the gold at the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) Commonwealth Championships.
The event, spanning from October 4 to 13, has seen Adam not only become the new Commonwealth Sub Junior 93kg Champion but also secure gold in both the squat and bench press categories, along with a silver in the deadlift.
The championship was fraught with tension, particularly during Adam's gripping face-off with England's Visser, in a contest that captivated the audience from start to finish.
Adam's journey to this point has been unconventional yet inspiring. Starting his training at the tender age of 11 during lockdown, he used the resources at hand on his family farm, including tractor weights and tires.
His passion for powerlifting led him to Definition Gym in Ballymena, where he dedicated himself to daily training sessions after school.
His first competitive outing was in July at the NI Bench Press Championships, where his performance was so outstanding that he received an invitation to join the Sub Junior Team at the Commonwealth Championships just days later.
His prowess was further highlighted in September when he broke the Northern Ireland Deadlift Record not once but twice, lifting 240kg and then 250kg, which is equivalent to just over 39 stone.
This rapid ascent in the powerlifting world has not only brought Adam accolades but has also significantly contributed to his personal development.
His parents have noted the positive effects on his mental health, crediting the supportive environment of both the gym and his educational setting at Connect-Ed. This local charity, run by Karen and Ric Wilton out of First Ballymena Church, offers tailored educational support, playing a crucial role in enhancing Adam's confidence and self-esteem.
Talking to Love Ballymena, Adam’s proud parents Alan and Sharon Gault said:
“Honestly, we just keep watching him over and over and can't find the right words to say how proud we are of him both in his performance and how he has conducted himself.
”As parents, to see him thrive in that environment, coming along side the other competitors and championing each other on. Just great sportsmanship from everyone involved, they're all a credit to themselves and the countries they represent.
“Huge thanks again to Fibrus for sponsoring him to attend this event, to Jonny Ferguson from Performax for preparing him over the last few weeks and to all the supervising coaches from the Northern Ireland Powerlifting Federation who have done a superb job in supporting all the lifters representing Northern Ireland at this event.”
Meanwhile, the powerlifting community and his supporters back home are buzzing with excitement over Adam's future prospects. Given his youth and already formidable strength, experts believe Adam Gault has a bright future in the sport, potentially setting new benchmarks in powerlifting.
As the championships draw to a close, Adam's story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating how determination, innovative training, and community support can propel a young individual to international success, even from the most humble beginnings.