Teenage weightlifter in critical care after accident
A TEENAGER who is fighting for life after a weightlifting mishap in Brisbane on Tuesday night is believed to have been bench pressing more than his body weight at the time.
Ben Shaw, 15, from Bray Park in Brisbane’s north, is understood to have been working out alone on the Smith machine at the Pine Rivers PCYC when he lost control of the weight and it landed on his throat.
PCYC staff found Ben sometime later and he was rushed to hospital.
Last night he remained in a critical condition at the Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital.
His family was by his bedside.
PCYC Queensland chief executive Phil Schultz said first aid was administered by PCYC staff and other members before Ben was taken to hospital.
“We are deeply saddened by this incident and are offering support to all PCYC Pine Rivers members and staff,” Mr Schultz said.
“We will also offer support to family and friends of the young man involved.
“We made contact with Worksafe Queensland (on Tuesday) night and are co-operating fully with their investigation.”
Police are assisting Workplace Health and Safety with their investigation.
Ben plays under-15s division 2 rugby league for the Pine Central Holy Spirit Rugby League Club.
Club president Sharon Hickey said Ben was on life support.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Benjamin Shaw,” she wrote on Facebook.