The 2026 Para Powerlifting Asia-Oceania Championships are underway in Bangkok, bringing together athletes from across the region for one of the sport’s key international events.
Among the Australian team is Rod Watson, whose selection marks a remarkable return to international competition. A T12 spinal cord injury changed the course of his life, but not his drive. After stepping away from competition, Watson’s passion for Para powerlifting drew him back to the bench, culminating in a qualifying lift at the Melbourne Open in March and securing his place on the team for Bangkok.
For Watson, the decision to return wasn’t sudden – it was a steady, persistent pull, growing as his body began responding again.
“After injuries, there’s always that urge to come back to competition,” he said. “You can train in the gym as much as you like, but it’s not the same – competition brings a different intensity, a different energy. That’s what I missed.
“The urge to compete intensified as preparation transformed into real possibility. The turning point for me is when everything starts clicking again – when your body feels strong and you know you can lift with confidence. That’s when you realise you’re ready to step back into competition.”
In the years between competitions, Watson’s focus shifted to family, while still staying connected to the sport.
“I’ve spent a lot of time with my two boys, teaching them how to lift weights and be strong,” he said. “That’s been really important – passing that on, being around it in a different way.”
The break also gave him a fresh perspective on the sport.
“You come back with a different lens. You’re just grateful to be strong and healthy enough to still be able to do it. That appreciation probably wasn’t the same before.”
Returning to the Paralympics Australia Melbourne Open, Watson secured a qualifying lift that confirmed he was ready to compete on the international stage.
“It was a great feeling, not just because of the number, but because it showed I was ready to compete again,” he said.
Now in Bangkok, the opportunity to represent Australia carries meaning that goes beyond medals: “To put on the Australian uniform again and compete at this level – that’s something I’m really proud of,” he said.
With a growing calendar of competitions and major events on the horizon, Watson sees this next chapter as a chance to build consistency and continue improving.
“There are more competitions now, which is great for the sport. It gives you the chance to get stronger, stay competitive, and keep enjoying it all year round,” he said.
“I’ve won plenty of medals. Now, it’s about keeping a strong, healthy body and being able to stay in the sport for as long as I can.”
Watson’s journey reflects the wider growth of Para powerlifting, where more athletes, more competitions and more pathways are creating opportunities for newcomers – and for those returning. His advice to anyone considering, or coming back to, the sport is simple: “Be patient, follow the process and listen to your coaches. Stick with it and the results will come.”
In Bangkok, as the competition continues, Watson’s focus is clear: to perform, to represent, and to make the most of this next chapter – lifting not just weight, but the story of resilience and opportunity that the sport itself embodies.
Entry lists: https://www.paralympic.org/powerlifting/live-results
The championships are being live streamed at: Paralympic Games – YouTube
For more information on how to get involved in Para Powerlifting: www.parapowerliftingaustralia.com.au
By Ashley Gillespie, Paralympics Australia.
Published 10 April, 2026.
