David James (Banksia Grove, seated) and his power lifting coach Clarecia Murray (Lifters Den).
Camera IconDavid James (Banksia Grove, seated) and his power lifting coach Clarecia Murray (Lifters Den). Credit: Supplied/Martin Kennealey d481619

Banksia Grove man gets a boost at first powerlifting event

Lucy JarvisWanneroo Times

BANKSIA Grove resident David James (42) received the “most promising” weight lifter title at his first competition recently.

Helen James said her son, who has been blind since birth and has autism, competed in the sport for the first time at the 2018 King of the Bench State Championships at the Muscle Pit in Cannington on March 25.

“Even though David wasn’t going to break any records on the day, he was shown complete respect and encouragement by the organisers West Australian Powerlifting Association (WAPA), other competitors and spectators on the day,” she said.

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“David so impressed the organisers he was awarded the ‘most promising male lifter’ medal by WAPA on the day.

“It just shows that people with severe disabilities can compete against able-bodied athletes.”

His coach Clarecia Murray has spent the last 12 months helping Mr James prepare for open competition, with Avivo providing funding for additional training sessions under their disability wellness program.

“David is looking forward to competing in his next event and hopefully breaking his own personal record in the process,” Mrs James said.

She said the family was concerned how the Federal Government’s NDIS roll out in WA later this year would affect funding for his training.

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