LIFTERS SMASH RECORDS
Duo smashes Aussie, world records on path to victory
POWER LIFTING: Taylah Ebzery and Brenton Dierke love the simplicity of their sport.
It is a sport that rewards hard work and the young athletes have been working hard.
Both lifters returned from the recent GPC Junior Nationals in Perth with gold medals.
Dierke, 17,was a dominant force at the event securing his sixth Australian record and setting new world squat and combined lift totals.
“It was an amazing competition for me,” Dierke said.
“I wouldn’t say I was jumping around when I got the records though.
“I’m really happy but this is what you train for. You work hard all the time to try and get these numbers.”
Balancing school, work and training commitments Dierke said it was his desire to test himself at every opportunity that got him to the gym.
“When I’m competing I like to place myself against the Open competitors,” he said.
“I love the challenge and the competition.
“Sometimes it’s hard balancing school, work and training but I don’t have any problems getting to the gym.
“I don’t have to drag myself there because I love the sport.”
Ebzery, 22, shares a similar passion to sport as her Strength Precinct team-mate.
“I love that it’s about how you perform, not how you look,” she said.
“You set your goals, work hard and enjoy the results.
“It’s a real adrenaline rush as well, when you’re out there pulling PBs (personal bests) it’s a great feeling.”
Ebzery, who recorded new back squat and combined lift totals at nationals, said focusing on the process was the key to performing well.
“It’s about knowing your cues and listening to the head judge,” Ebzery said.
“I can’t thank Chris (Wells) enough either. He is extremely supportive and a great coach.”
With the junior nationals capping off an intense competition phase Ebzery and Dierke said they would now enjoy some time off.
“Chris is hoping to have a event here in Toowoomba next year,” Ebzery said.
“It would be fantastic to be able to compete in my home town but for the moment I’m taking some time off.
“Next year I’ll be moving up into the open division. Right now I’m going to take some time off and assess my technique.”