Organisers handed over a cheque for £850 to Launchpad on Saturday to raise much needed funds for the charity and raise awareness of homeless veterans.
Fifty athletes from across the country competed in the Lifting Launchpad weightlifting event, which was organised by Northern Weightlifting and Unique Fitness North East.
The morning saw some excellent performances from the youngsters including sisters Emily and Olivia from Featherstone Weightlifting Club in Yorkshire who were presented with gold medals in the U12 category. This was followed by Ayden Edwards of Triple X Weightlifting Club in Manchester who was also presented with gold and best male lifter in the U12 category.
In the afternoon, world masters champion Susan Trebillcock from The Parkhead & Wansbeck Powersports Club in Ashington received a gold medal and the title for best lifter by Sergeant Gary Stamp from 3RHA, who very kindly allowed us to host the competition on site at Albemarle Barracks. Susan holds multiple masters records including World, European, British and England.
Collecting gold and best lift trophy in the ladies senior group was Hannah Beaumont from Triple X Weightlifting.
The day was a huge success and enjoyed by all participants and spectators. Funds were raised from entry fees, a raffle, refreshments and online donations.
Launchpad’s Avondale House in Newcastle upon Tyne is the city’s largest veterans’ accommodation. The charity provides accommodation and support to veterans’ to help them make a successful transition to civilian life. Avondale House comprises 33 self-contained one-bedroom flats and has supported 227 veterans (at 31 August 2021) since it opened in 2013.
Phil Thompson, Manager of Avondale House said:
“It was a brilliant day and I’d like to say a special thank you to everyone involved from the competitors, coaches and spectators to Northern Weightlifting and Unique Fitness North East for organising it. I’d also like to make a special mention to 3RHA at Albemarle Barracks for kindly allowing us to use their fantastic facilities.
“The money will contribute towards setting up a gymnasium at Avondale House to help our residents with their mental health and improve their physical fitness and wellbeing. We are very grateful to receive this cheque and there are still more donations coming in so thank you. Due to the success of our inaugural event, this may become an annual competition in our calendar and hopefully more teams can join us next year – watch this space!”
