An Inverness man is proving that disability is no barrier to success in weightlifting after taking up the sport just a few months ago.
Richard Sutherland, who has Down’s Syndrome, says he’s inspired by Invergordon-born Tom Stoltman, who currently holds the title of World’s Strongest Man.
Richard, 49, has set his sights on mastering the sport’s two technical lifts, the snatch and the clean and jerk, in time for the Northern District Weightlifting Championships in June.
He says he first became interested in the sport because of fellow Highlander Tom Stoltman, from whom he gained a few tips when they met recently.
Richard, who works at Inverness Botanic Gardens, said: “Tom Stoltman is a great guy, he is very strong. I like him.
STV News
STV News“I am very strong, and my muscles are getting bigger. I lift lots of garden stuff as well when I am at work.”
Jordan Bowie of the Inverness Olympic Weightlifting Club coaches Richard.
They first met five years ago, but Richard decided to push himself to lift weights and is now preparing to take part in his first competition.
Jordan said: “It doesn’t matter what disability you have, you can still take part in Olympic weightlifting.
“We just have to adapt it.”
Richard, who will be 50 next year, says he has a secret weapon when limbering up to lift – a soundtrack of the Rocky theme and his favourite artist, Elvis.
He’s full of confidence ahead of his first taste of competition.
He said: “I love it, I am excited. I think I will lift the trophy.”
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