Team spirits raised as Dunstable firefighter declared powerlifting world champion
A Dunstable firefighter has been declared a world champion powerlifter.
Firefighter Gemma Salter finished as the overall world champion at the World Masters Equipped Powerlifting competition in South Africa at the weekend.
Gemma competed in the M1 Ladies – those between 40 and 49 – Under 57kg category.
Despite a broken finger, Gemma scooped wins across three competitions.
She explained: "I had a setback in May when I broke my finger, which did impact on my preparation.
"I did however win silver in the squat with a personal best of 147.5kg, silver in the bench press with a personal best of 85kg, and took gold in the deadlift with a 155kg lift.
“I finished as the overall world champion with a total lift of 387.5kg.
“I am delighted with the result and very grateful for the support I received from the service”.
Her colleagues praised her ‘huge achievement’, adding: “Well done Gemma, we are so proud you are part of #TeamBedsFire.”