THREE Powerlifters from Bridgwater took on the world in Russia at the Amateur World Powerlifting Congress - and won!

The trio, made up of 29-year-old Laura Parker, her brother Ben Legg, aged 22, and her partner Steve Thresher, aged 40, pitched their strength against amateur World Powerlifters from 46 countries to win gold and silver medals in their respective classes.

Laura won an impressive gold in her 90kg Full Power RAW class (lifting without any assistance or special equipment), Ben also won gold in the Men’s junior 75 kg RAW class and Steve lifted a staggering 600 kg in his 110kg category to win silver in the Men’s Masters RAW.

The medal haul represents a fine achievement for the trio, who at one stage were not even sure they would be able to make the championships due to the costs involved in taking part.

Laura paid tribute to Riverside Gym, where the three athletes train, for their assistance in funding for the trio in their adventure.

“We really wanted to compete this year but the cost was too much for us,” she began.

“When the gym that we train in heard that we couldn’t go, they said they would pay our flights and visas for us.

“We couldn’t have been more excited, as we knew we had a good chance of being placed.

“We were so pleased to be able to go, and thrilled to be placed, we can’t thank Riverside enough - it was an opportunity of a lifetime.

“We went up against some of the best Powerlifters in the world and showed them what people in Bridgwater can do!”

The owner of Riverside Fitness Club, Paul Johns, had full confidence in the three ahead of the championships, with good reason.

“When you see their dedication and how hard they push themselves, you can’t fail to be impressed,” he said.

“We are very proud to have them as part of Team Riverside and to be their chosen training club; we had to help.”