Kapiti's Jessie powers way to silver medal

Jessie Walker, 25, did Kapiti proud at the New Zealand Women's Powerlifting Championship 2015 in Auckland.

Paraparaumu Beach powerlifter Jessie Walker secured silver at her first national competition in Auckland this month, following a close final call that saw her gold-winning competitor lift the same hefty 430kg.

"Since she was lighter than me, she took out the overall title of the 84+ open women class," said Jessie, 25, who was among eight women in her class at the New Zealand Women's Powerlifting Championship 2015.

Having run from July 9 to July 12 at Alexander Park, the event saw the determined young powerlifter complete final lifts that included a 170kg squat, 90kg bench press and 170kg deadlift.

"I was definitely more focused than usual coming up to comp time and trained extra hard," the ex-Paraparaumu College student said, who placed first in three novice competitions and one provincial competition prior to her national win.

Coached at 318 Fitness in Paraparaumu, by Clive Madge of Kapiti Powerlifting Club, the talented softball player only began training in powerlifting around May last year.

"People told me I'd be good at it and I enjoyed squats and deadlifts, so decided to give it a go."

Training four times a week, with a main lift once a week and additional exercises to assist in strengthening her main lifts, Jessie's regime focuses on minimal cardio.

"It was a great day at the comp lifting and getting personal bests for all my lifts.

"My plan is to go the world champs next alongside a few of the other KPC lifters, so I have a few technique issues I need to work on."

Despite having endured tendonitis at the beginning of this year, which saw her push through pain during training, Jessie did not let it set her back.

She said, in her eyes, powerlifting is one of the most supportive sports to be involved in.

"Although you're up against other competitors, they and the crowd get right behind you with cheers when you're trying to move those big weights.

"Powerlifting is about being focused, pushing yourself beyond your comfort, and self-belief."