She was one of one two Australians who will compete in the 63kg category as she looks to gain a place in the weightlifting squad for the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
Lai said she would be judged across two disciplines, the snatch and the clean and jerk, and that a lift of 192kg would give Australia another place in the women's 63kg category at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
"Qualifying for Rio will be a challenge, but my sights are set on the Commonwealth Games in 2018," she said.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOW"Im relatively new to the sport and would like to improve my strength as Im some times not able to lift the weight or receive approval from judges on my technique with a heavier weight."
Lai trains eight times a week and works through her physiotherapy degree with the help of Notre Dame University's elite athlete friendly program.