Dr Chelsea Batty, a lecturer at Wrexham University, has claimed the title of British Powerlifting Champion at the International Powerlifting League British Championships.
Competing in the single lift female – 75kg category, Dr Batty not only secured the championship but also set a new British record in the bench press for her division.
The prestigious event, hosted at Wrexham University, brought together over 70 powerlifters from across the country.
Dr Batty, who serves as the Principal Lead for Sport and Exercise Sciences and Applied Sciences, described her victory as a dream come true:
“It feels beyond incredible to have achieved champion status, especially at national level – and it’s extra special that we were hosts for the competition.”
In a remarkable display of strength, she benched 75kg, achieving a long-time goal, and deadlifted 150kg, securing her qualification for the European Championships in Poland next year.
Dr Batty has been steadily making her mark in the sport, having also competed in the Amateur British Powerlifting Championships last year.
With this recent triumph, she is set to represent the UK in the upcoming World Championships.
Dr Caroline Hughes, Acting Dean for the Faculty of Social and Life Sciences, congratulated Dr Batty on her outstanding accomplishments:
“An enormous congratulations to Dr Batty for her incredible achievements – as if being a British champion wasn’t enough, she is also a national record holder. Our students are being taught by the best of the best – and will be able to glean some incredible insights and knowledge from her.”
The event was not only a platform for elite athletes but also an opportunity for Wrexham University students to apply their skills. Students from Sports Injury Rehabilitation and Coaching: Sport and Fitness practiced sports massage and consultation, while Biomechanics equipment was used to assess the strength of competitors and spectators.
