Powerlifting: Novices lift for regionals

National bench press record-holder Joe Whittaker shows the novices how it's done at ASB Stadium on Saturday.

Novice powerlifters have put their strength to the test at Kensington's ASB Stadium, with the aim of qualifying for the Northland championships next year.

With weight classes ranging from 66kg and under to 120kg and over for men, and 47kg and under to 84kg and over for women, it's no wonder the event was well supported.

Northland Powerlifting Association secretary Brian Froggatt said the sport seemed to be getting more popular as membership had been growing in its centres in Dargaville, Kaikohe, Kerikeri, Kaitaia, and Whangarei.

IN CHECK: Hugh McKechnie checks the weights ahead of a lift.

There was plenty of motivation on display on Saturday as novice lifters rubbed shoulders with Joe Whittaker, the national bench press record-holder and national powerlifting silver medallist.

National bench press champion Katrina Barrett, who lifted her way to success at the Auckland championships, was also in the action.

Winners in their categories qualified for the regional championships next year.