Trio taking on Australia's best

Three Bribie teenagers will be on home territory when they face Australia’s top young weightlifters at the National Youth (U17) and Under 15 Championships this weekend.

Levi Davidson, Mahalia Davidson and Addison Coutts are members of Bribie Island Movement & Strength Club, which is hosting the tournament.

They will join more than 100 athletes, coaches and supporters at Bribie Island State School for the competition on Saturday and Sunday (October 18-19).

Spectators are welcome at the state school venue in First Ave, Bongaree.

Levi, 17, is in the Youth Men 88kg category. He has been weightlifting for nine years, holds state and national records and was in this year’s Crossfit Torian Pro event.

Mahalia, 16, will be in the Youth Female 53kg event. She started weightlifting eight years ago and also holds state records.

Addison, 14, is gearing up for her first major competition. She has representative honours in netball but started weightlifting 18 months ago and is in the U15 Female 69kg section.

“This championship is where Australia’s future Olympians first step onto a national stage,” said Paul Walters, Event Director and President of Bribie Island Movement & Strength Club.

“Our team is focused on an athlete-first experience - professional platforms, qualified officials and a welcoming environment for families and fans.

“This is the second time Bribie has held the titles though our club has been building a strong reputation in the weightlifting community for many years.

“When the Australian Weightlifting Federation was seeking expressions of interest for a venue, we knew our facilities, support and community spirit made Bribie an ideal choice.”

“We’d love to see the local community come along and support the event.

“It’s not often Bribie Island gets to host a national sporting championship, so it’s a fantastic opportunity to get behind our young athletes.”

There will be multiple sessions across age and bodyweight categories, strict anti-doping and safety protocols.

Young lifters can also achieve national rankings, development squad consideration and may find pathways to national and international competitions.