A COLWYN Bay weightlifting sensation has set his sights on further international recognition this weekend.

Josh Lynch, a Year 9 pupil at Rydal Penrhos School, has been working hard in pursuit of qualification for the European Championships later this year, with the first attempt at qualification scheduled for Saturday, March 10 at the Oldbury Open.

The 14-year-old has been training with the school’s Strength and Conditioning department and Commonwealth Games athlete Harry Misangyi to ready himself for a busy series of upcoming competitions, and he also got the opportunity to train at Athlete Factory, which is run by former England and British Lions star Phil Greening and ex-Georgia Rugby coach Ryan Gibney.

The sports scholar, who holds a plethora of Welsh records after a standout young career to date, also used the Cryogenic Chamber at the facility to maximise his recovery from training.

In addition to his weightlifting exploits, Josh is also a member of the Sale Sharks player development programme and has also captained RGC West.

Mr Misangyi, said: “Josh has been very focused in his training recently. He is managing a couple of little niggles well which is vital as an athlete for long-term progression.

“This week in training he looked stronger than ever making an easy 140kg back squat, which is way over double bodyweight.

“This accompanied with some high quality 75kg snatches, he is on track to qualify for the European Championships this year, held in Italy.

“Josh has until the end of April to qualify for what will be his biggest competition to date. He is a credit to the sport and a great young athlete.

“Josh has all the characteristics and determination needed to go on and be a great sportsman for Great Britain.”