LOCAL powerlifters Patrick Constantine and Charley Shotton-Gale were part of the 10-strong Great Britain team which travelled to Köping, Sweden recently to take part in the European Open Powerlifting Championships.

Constantine enjoyed significant success in the championships, earning gold in the deadlift and a bronze overall.

Shotton-Gale, in her first international competition, grabbed sixth place overall.

Debutant Shotton-Gale was delighted with the result, after just three years in the sport.

“It being my first ever international, I was pleased to get a total and get on the scoresheet,” she said.

“The experience was so different to any competition I have ever done within Britain and I look forward to many more.”

Shotton-Gale’s focus now turns to the South West Unequipped Powerlifting Championships in Bournemouth on May 30 while Constantine, a veteran of the sport, takes part in the British Open in Birmingham in mid-July.

“There are two British records I would like to attempt - the squat and the bench press - at the south west championships,” she said.

“All the senior squad from the Swindon Powerlifting Club will be attending the national competition and it will prove to be an exciting competition for all.”

Shotton-Gale began her weightlifting career in 2007 after she found a passion for the sport, after trying to build her strength to be a better rugby player.

After training with both Nick and James Doig, under the tutorship of Constantine, she became British champion in 2008 before earning international recognition a year later.

Now the star lifter has joined forces with local boxer Marlon Reid, doubling up as his promoter and assistant, and she is grateful to the brawler for his contribution to her fledgling career.

“His input to my training has been fantastic,” she said.

“By combining his knowledge of boxing training and my strength experience we should make a great team.

“We are also looking to the future as a supportive role to each other for our respective sports.”