Hollie Tobun, 32, from Northallerton, competed in the championships in Canada on Sunday, September 27, with her husband, Kai, and two children watching on in the crowd, and landed top finishes in several categories she took part in.
While powerlifting isn’t part of the Commonwealth Games in its own right like a lot of other sports and disciplines, the powerlifting community run a yearly Commonwealth competition for athletes across the world to take part in.
Competing in the 84 kilo class for England, Hollie placed second overall, including a gold for squats, silver for deadlift and bronze for bench press.
Despite only starting powerlifting two years ago, Hollie, who owns Sapphire Gym in Northallerton, has already hit the heights and has now targeted more titles and medals.
And the 32-year-old has said that the powerlifting community is one of the best “families” she has ever been part of.
“After opening the gym in 2022, I wanted to try a new discipline. I’ve always lifted weights and wanted to push myself even more,” Hollie said.
“There’s nothing more electric than competing at championships and hearing that crowd roaring,” Hollie added.
“Even though there are people there from loads of other countries, and the same with the crowd, it’s one big family, and everyone cheers you on when you’re lifting that bar or doing that next squat; it’s great to be part of.
“I’ve made some friends for life doing the powerlifting competitions, and it’s a great family to be part of.”
For now, Hollie is focused on her next challenge, which is the British Championships in December, and then she wants to compete for Great Britain in the World Championships.
While the Northallerton personal trainer admits he is “super competitive”, she has also opened up about raising two kids while also competing in powerlifting.
“My kids come to the competition alongside my husband, and they love it; it’s just a positive community to introduce your children to.
“It just shows that you can be strong, tough, powerful and still have that welcoming and gentle side too.
“It’s about breaking down those barriers and changing perceptions.”
