Photographer Dan Laban snaps the 50 Special Olympians yesterday before they leave on their medals quest. Photo / Glenn Jeffrey
Powerlifter Christopher Tilley has a simple formula he reckons should bring him success at the Special Olympics in China next month.
The Nelson 20-year-old, among the favourites to bring back gold from at least one of his three powerlifting events in Shanghai, says it's all a case of
everything in moderation.
"I eat most things but just not too much of anything, it's pretty simple really."
Mr Tilley is one of 50 Special Olympians, New Zealand's largest delegation to date, who gathered in Auckland yesterday before they leave for Hong Kong tonight.
Held every four years, the Special Olympics aims to empower people with intellectual disabilities through sporting events.
More than 7000 athletes from 160 countries will compete from October 2 to 11.
New Zealand delegation head Sue Kysow said she expected a golden return for the Kiwi athletes, who compete in athletics, aquatics, basketball, bocce, tenpin bowling, gymnastics, equestrian, golf and powerlifting.
"This is our youngest and fittest team ever and I wouldn't be surprised if we saw more than 50 golds come back," she said.
"These people are hardworking athletes and their preparation has been better, their fitness levels are better and in terms of commitment I've never seen anything like it."
Mr Tilley, who holds the South Island 82.5kg open powerlifting title and beats "regular lifters", can deadlift 200kg, squat 165kg and bench press 105kg.
