Local Weightlifter Josh Summersgill has returned home to the UK on a massive high after delivering a stellar performance on the international stage at the 2026 World Masters Weightlifting Championships in Athens, Greece.
Competing in the highly competitive M35 category (Male 35, 85kg class), the Warrington athlete put up a phenomenal display of strength and resilience among a stacked field of 43 international competitors, ultimately securing an impressive 8th place overall finish.
After successfully qualifying for the world-class competition in 8th place, the local lifter exceeded expectations through a masterclass in execution:
Snatch Phase: After an initial missed attempt at 107kg, he bounced back to successfully lock out 107kg on his second lift, before powering through to land a heavy 112kg on his third.
Clean and Jerk Phase: Opening with a solid 138kg, he swiftly followed up with a 143kg lift. He then shattered the British Record by successfully clearing 148kg on his final clean and jerk attempt.
The Record-Breaker: The new milestone successfully eclipses the previous British record of 144kg—a record he had set earlier this year in March.
A Total Triumph
His phenomenal performance across both disciplines yielded a combined total of 260kg, cementing his place in the global top 10 and crowning an unforgettable campaign.
“I literally can’t tell you how buzzing I am with it,” he shared following his return to the UK. “The whole experience was just incredible, and to break the British record and finish in the top 8 out of 43 guys feels amazing. I’m completely made up with it!”
The local hero and father of three is now back home and looking forward to a well-earned rest after etching his name deeper into British weightlifting history.
1 Comment
Fantastic achievement Jish, congratulations!