Weightlifting a surprising world winner for sam

MANAWATU College student Sam Hansen representing New Zealand in weightlifting at the recent Youth World Championships and the Youth Commonwealth Championships

It's every sportsperson's dream to be selected to represent New Zealand, and one that came true for a Manawatu College student.

Sam Hansen, 17, competed in her first ever weightlifting competition earlier this year and as a result of her top performance was selected to represent New Zealand in last month's Youth World Championships and the Youth Commonwealth Championships.

Hansen begun her unexpected weightlifting journey two years ago when she started CrossFit training at school.

Her instructor, noticing her natural technique and improved strength suggested she enter a weightlifting competition, held in Wellington, where she took the Over 15s National Champion Female Under 69kg title.

"I just wanted to see what weightlifting comps were like. I didn't even know it was possible to be selected to represent New Zealand," she said.

Hansen, competing in Penang, Malaysia, at the Youth World Championships and the Youth Commonwealth Championships, said she did not expect to place.

"I'm not a full time weightlifter. I just did my thing."

For 'doing her thing' Hansen placed fourth in the Commonwealth and ranked 15th in the world, lifting 63kg in the snatch, and 80kg in the clean and jerk.

Hansen said she seems to do better when the pressure is on.

"It was nerve racking being in the arena with the lights pointed at me, but the adrenaline kicked in and the weights didn't feel as heavy as in training."

She said representing her country was surreal and she felt honoured to wear the uniform.

Hansen said her sudden weightlifting career came as a surprise to her father who thought Hansen was simply working out at the gym.

"Mum and dad watched me compete in Malaysia on live stream and face timed me as soon as I had finished. Then moments later they went to my coach's house to thank him. I think my dad was more excited than I was."

Hansen credits her success to her coach and PE teacher Shayne Nation.

"I would not be doing weightlifting if it wasn't for Mr Nation. He has been incredibly dedicated to my training," she said.

Nation said he was willing to put time and effort into training any student that trained as hard as Hansen.

"Hansen is worth the effort. I know the time I spend programming with her is not a waste. I know she will train hard and take advantage of what is offered to her. Her natural talent motivates me to do the best I can for her."

Nation said Hansen is also a great role model to other students.

"She shows that if they work hard enough they too can get to the top. She listens and puts into practice everything I teach her and she keeps her feet firmly on the ground. I am proud to be her coach," he said.

Hansen now has her 'weights' firmly set on competing at next year's Oceania Championships in the junior section.