Special Olympian will be Plymouth's first powerlifter

Double silver medalist, Steven Dodd, has swapped his kayak for a weights bar as he prepares for his first powerlifting competition next month.

Steven is currently in training for the Special Olympics Yorkshire and Humberside Regional Powerlifting Competition, being held in Bradford on Saturday 12 November.

He will be the first ever Special Olympic competitor to represent Plymouth in this event.

The Special Olympics competitor, who won his medals taking part in kayaking events at last year's games in Los Angeles, said: "I am very excited about the competition. I feel very strong when I am lifting and I want to show people again and again the power I have inside of me."

In preparation for the competition, Steven is training regularly with his weightlifting coach, Pete Bruce, at Total Rebuild Fitness and Strength.

"Steven is working incredibly hard and never gives up, he's a credit to work with and he always demands more from himself," Pete added.

"With just three weeks to go, we're now busy working on Steven's technique; to ensure it's tidy and well-practiced as it's vitally important that he completes at least one valid lift in all elements of the competition.

"With this being his first competition, I'd like to see him settle in, enjoy the competition and be proud of his personal results. A podium finish will be an added bonus."

Steven is currently looking for local businesses to sponsor him for his Powerlifting competition. If you can help Steven, please contact Pete on 07800 956078.

Good luck Steven!