Correspondent
Kimberley-born African Bench Press Champion Ricardo Fitzpatrick (43) says preparations are underway for the South African Bench Press Competition, which will be held on 3 March in Gqeberha, in the Eastern Cape. The competition, consisting of several divisions, is expected to attract hundreds of athletes from locally and across Africa.
The reigning African champion para-powerlifter explained that he is also preparing for the much-anticipated South African Sport for the Physically Disabled Powerlifting competition on 22 March in Bloemfontein.
“I have been working hard at the gym for both tournaments, and I am taking them seriously to prepare myself for the world championships later in the year. I still have good memories of the South African Sport for Physically Disabled championships in 2017, where I broke the record in the 88kg division. These are the memories I will cherish for the rest of my life,” said Fitzpatrick.
The African record holder represented South Africa in Australia in the Para-Olympic team in 2018. He holds several titles, which include the 2004 Gauteng World Champion, the 2011 Commonwealth Bench Press Champion, the 2016 African Bench Press Champion, and the 2017 Commonwealth Bench Press Champion. He was ranked 7th at Dubai’s Fazza Para Powerlifting World Cup in 2016.
Fitzpatrick said he has not ruled out a coaching job to help youngsters with a passion for powerlifting.
“I am considering big plans, one of them being a coach. I want to see many upcoming youngsters participate in the sport, especially in Kimberley and the Northern Cape. Powerlifting is good for a person’s well-being, so I wish to see many local athletes get involved.”
Despite winning many titles and being a globetrotter, Fitzpatrick said his passion for the sport has remained strong. He said he gains a lot of strength from the sport. He said he takes a cue from his uncle, a former well-known bodybuilder.
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