Weighty matters for dad, daughter

Shannon Clifford with dad David Clifford at her graduation from the University of Huddersfield in June 2016. The dad and daughter duo are both in training to compete at the highest level.

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A DAD and his daughter are gearing up to represent the country at the highest level as they showcase their strength.

David Clifford (51) is in training to represent Britain in the IPF World Classic Powerlifting Championships in Minsk, Belarus.

It comes after daughter Shannon Clifford (23) found success at the North's Strongest Women Competition, securing a place in the English Championships later this year.

David, of Lees, will compete in his first international contest when he takes part in the championships on Friday, June 16.

The opportunity came after winning the British Master in the M2 U83kg category held in Belfast in March.

He said: "I'm now only four weeks off competing so I'm honing the skills needed to perform the big three lifts - squat, bench-press and deadlift - at a weight close to my current maximum capacity.

"It's a little daunting as I'll be competing against some of the strongest people in the powerlifting world."

Squad

On Sunday, May 14 David met with fellow squad members from across the country in Bromsgrove and received tips from the the GB team coach.

He added: "It is a dream come true to compete on the international stage in a sport I love. It's the culmination of two and a half years of dedication and many hours of hard training in the gym.

"I am thrilled and honoured to have the opportunity to represent both the Northwest Powerlifting organisation and Great Britain at this event."

David and Shannon train at Vikings Gym, Lees.

Shannon recently secured third place in the North's Strongest Women Competition after only training for the Strongman event for four weeks.

The former Mossley Hollins High and Oldham Sixth Form pupil, who has held a British champion title in powerlifting for two years, turned to strongman training as a change and only took part in the challenge at the last minute.

Shannon said: "I felt out of my depth but I worked hard and fuelled myself well. I was over the moon with how it went."

Her third place finish qualified her for England's Strongest Woman contest at Bloodstock Outdoor Heavy Metal festival in August.

"I'm so excited for this event but I know it's probably going to be the biggest challenge I have faced yet," Shannon said.