Talented Abi has come such a long weigh
Kettlebell star follows in her world champ dad’s footsteps
A Paisley youngster has gone from strength- tostrength to become the youngest lifter in Scotland to qualify for the national Kettlebell team.
Talented Abi McLaughlin will represent Scotland at the International Kettlebell Marathon Federation ( IKMF) World Championships in Spain this November.
The nine-year-old is following in the footsteps of dad Scott McLaughlin who holds the title of World Champion and is the UK record holder in Kettlebell Sport.
Little Abi took up the sport in November last year after she took an interest in her dad’s training.
Scott said: “She started to ask if I could show her how to do it and she took to it brilliantly.
“It’s been great to see her focus on something she loves.”
Despite having only started the sport nine months ago, the Brediland Primary School pupil has already progressed from lifting a 2kg Kettlebell for five minutes to now lifting a 4kg Kettlebell for 15 minutes non-stop.
Scott said: “At the world championships she will be lifting for 15 minutes in Long Cycle Clean and Jerk as well as Snatch.
“It’s pretty impressive - she’s a sturdy wee thing.”
Proud Scott says although Abi has a shy personality, kettlebell lifting has helped her to shine.
“It has given her so much confidence,” explained Scott.
“She used to be rea l l y embarrassed to do things in front of people but now she stands up in front of hundreds of people for competitions.
“Abi still gets nervous at first but she told me that because everyone is so supportive it makes her feel comfortable.
“That’s what it’s all about - we are just one big team.
“It doesn’t matter how much you can lift or how strong you are - once you stand up on that platform, you’re getting love and support.”
Abi’s family say the news that she has earned a spot on the national team has lifted their spirits - and they can’t wait to cheer her on at the World Championships later this year.
Dedicated Abi trains with her dad every Friday and he says it has become a great bonding experience for them both.
“She is so hungry to progress and it is really nice for us to spend time together and have a laugh.
“I’m so lucky to have an amazing relationship with my daughter - she’s my wee shadow.”
She took to it brilliantly