A GREENOCK athlete is preparing for a ‘power trip’ after being selected to represent the UK at a major sporting event in Canada.

Christie McCart is set to raise the bar at the International Powerlifting Federation’s World Classic Championships in Calgary in June.

The 18-year-old from Mallard Crescent has been chosen to represent Team GB in the sub junior powerlifting category.

To help pay for the trip, Christie has launched an online Crowdfunder and is organising a fundraising night.

She told the Tele: “I can’t believe I’ve been selected — I didn’t think it would happen.

“I thought it might be at least another couple of years so this is another goal I’ve reached.”

Christie’s number one fans, her parents Gary and Marie, and brother Jordan, 22, are so proud of her.

Marie said: “Christie works so hard and puts hours in at the gym.”

Gary added: “This is an amazing opportunity for Christie.

“She went to London a few weeks ago for a trial and she is the only powerlifter from Scotland picked for the team.

“It’s amazing.”

Christie, who trains with the Greenock Barbell Club at Greenock Sports Centre, got her first taste of powerlifting at the age of 16.

Now the former pupil of St Columba’s High School in Gourock is deadlifting 152kg — nearly twice her 78kg bodyweight.
She said: “When I was about 14 I started going to the gym with my dad.

“Then I went for work experience at the Waterfront Leisure Centre and one of the guys in there told me about the powerlifting gym in the sports centre.

“I went along and it started from there.”

Christie’s powerlifting personal best records include 67.5kg for the bench and 140kg for the squat.

She said: “Even though powerlifting is an individual thing, there is still an element of team work as the people I train with will encourage you to keep going.”

The busy teenager also volunteers at Ardgowan Hospice, works at B&Q and is at college studying to be a personal trainer.

In preparation for the international event in June, Christie and her family are planning a fundraiser at Greenock Police Club on Saturday May 12.

Tickets cost £5 and can be booked by calling Gary on 07946381821.

To donate to the online appeal visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/christie-mccart